Sept. 11 first responders are lobbying lawmakers in Washington to replenish the Victims Compensation Fund, which is running out of money.

In the years since the 9/11 terrorist attacks, thousands have become ill and many have lost their lives due to exposure from toxins working on the pile of debris.

During a news conference Monday in Washington, D.C., comedian Jon Stewart and John Feal from the Long Island-based FealGood Foundation joined New York lawmakers in introducing the 'Never Forget the Heroes' 9/11 health bill. It calls for permanent authorization of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund, which is slated to stop accepting claims next year.

Larry Monachelli of East Williston, a retired NYC firefighter who worked at Ground Zero for four months, says he has to take medication for increasing health problems he got from inhaling toxic dust. He says he just hopes they pass something more permanent so he can concentrate on getting healthier.

Officials say the fund recently announced plans to cut payouts by up to 70 percent. It's set to expire in 2020.