A bill to help people exposed to toxins at ground zero is picking up momentum in Albany. 

The 9/11 Notice Act would require businesses with more than 50 employees, that are near ground zero to notify past and present employees of the 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund. 

Supporters of the bill say it's needed because only 10% of eligible people who were not first responders but worked in the area have registered for the federal program to get help if they develop a 9/11 related illness. 

Carlos Lopez is a retired FDNY EMT officer who lives in Middletown and spent nine months at ground zero. He was diagnosed with stomach cancer in 2020 and has been on chemotherapy since.

“I have a number of friends in the upstate area who have no idea they are able to participate in this program. It’s really important to get the word out," said Lopez. "I speak to people constantly and they just look at me like I have two heads. ‘What do you mean I’m eligible?’ Yes, absolutely.” 

The bill has been introduced in the Senate (S9551) and Assembly (A9715) and is expected to be voted on in January.