Garbarino, Lawler, LaLota, Malliotakis Applaud the Restoration of Dr. Howard as WTCHP Administrator

WASHINGTON, D.C. - This week, it was reported that Dr. John Howard, Administrator of the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP), was dismissed as part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) efforts to reorganize and optimize the department. Congressman Andrew R. Garbarino (R-NY-02), along with many of his colleagues, immediately contacted the White House to urge a reversal of this decision. Rep. Garbarino met with the White House on Wednesday to discuss the impact on the program and the critical importance of Dr. Howard's leadership.

On April 5, 2025, HHS reversed its decision, in consultation with the White House, restoring Dr. Howard as Administrator of the WTCHP. Rep. Garbarino, along with Representatives Mike Lawler (R-NY-17), Nick LaLota (R-NY-01), and Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY-11), who were instrumental in this effort, released a joint statement applauding the decision:

"We appreciate the Trump Administration's shared commitment to caring for our 9/11 responders and survivors. The firing of Dr. Howard and the subsequent impact on the World Trade Center Health Program was an unfortunate mistake, and we are deeply grateful for HHS' swift action to reinstate him as Administrator of this critical program. The Administration's continued support of the program is encouraging, and we look forward to working together to address any remaining issues."

Earlier this year, the WTCHP faced cuts to staffing and critical grants, which were also reversed following outreach to the White House by the Members.

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