The Hill News

The House passed a measure on Wednesday to create a new health benefits program for those taken ill because of their involvement in responding to the 9/11 attacks in New York City.

The 268 to 160 count prompted a response from Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-N.Y.), one of the bill's chief sponsors.

"9/11 responders win one. Only 17 GOP votes. (sigh)," he tweeted following the vote. 

The tweet linked to a video of Weiner â€" known as an impassioned speaker â€" discussing the bill on the floor.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) also tweeted following the bill's passage.

"Very pleased to gavel the James Zadroga 9/11 Health bill to passage (268-! 160). It is right, fair and just for 9/11 heroes," she said.

The measure will also create a compensation fund for victims of 9/11.