Sen. Jake Olivera says long-term health effects have increased 9/11 death toll

State Senator Jake Olivera said at the East Longmeadow candlelight vigil that the long-term health effects following the September 11 attacks have expanded the number of deaths tied to the event.

"In fact, just this past week, about 10000 deaths in Lower Manhattan have been attributed to the quality of air and life and conditions in Lower Manhattan since the devastating tragedy of 9 11 25 years ago," Olivera said. He framed the expanded toll as part of the continuing sacrifice of first responders and those who came to the site in the weeks afterward.

The senator opened his remarks by recalling the nearly 3,000 lives lost on Sept. 11 and emphasized the duty to ensure younger generations remember the events and the people affected. The transcript records the senator making the numerical claim without citing a specific study or official source.

The statement was reported as delivered from the vigil; the transcript does not include supporting documentation or a response from other officials in attendance.