What does Bob Turner have against 9/11 volunteers?

By Michael J.W. Stickings

I'm not sure this is the best position to take when you're running for a New York City congressional seat:

The GOP hopeful running for ex-Rep. Anthony Weiner's seat says the $4.3 billion Zadroga 9/11 health law is too broad - and shouldn't cover volunteers sickened at Ground Zero.

Republican Bob Turner told the Daily News Editorial Board the measure President Obama signed into law last year "had a lot of things that could have been a lot better."

"I probably couldn't go home if I didn't support the Zadroga bill. I have firemen in my family, but is that bill beyond criticism? No," he said.

Some $1.5 billion of the Zadroga package is set aside to monitor the health of rescue and cleanup crews.

It also bankrolls the treatment for Ground Zero workers, volunteers and residents who became ill from breathing in twin tower toxins.

The remaining $2.78 billion is set aside to compensate the families of those killed and the injured, including responders and volunteers - and nearby residents and office workers in an area south of Chambers St.

"I think it is a little too broad," Turner said.

"My call would be to protect police, fire, emergency workers, construction workers, etc.

"If someone said, 'I volunteered' or walked through there, it's just not the type," added Turner, who faces Democrat David Weprin in the Sept. 13 special election.

Yeah, damn volunteers! Who do they think they are? Good-fer-nothin' layabouts trying to make a quick buck.

But hey, at least Turner departs from many in his own party who didn't see the need to cover even those 9/11 workers (as opposed to volunteers) desperately in need of help.

Still, maybe he should pay a visit to Jon Stewart, who I'm sure wouldn't be terribly amused.