Many weren’t acting in the line of duty, but volunteer first responders at the World Trade Center site are now seriously ill and ‘accidental disability’ would ensure their health coverage. New Jersey lawmakers are working to change disability rules for the retirement plans set up for first responders who are now seriously ill after volunteering at the World Trade Center site following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks that killed more than 2,750 people. A bill that has already been approved by the full state Assembly with bipartisan support would qualify New Jersey first responders for what’s known as an “accidental disability.” That would extend coverage to them even if they were volunteering rather than officially in the line of duty when they assisted the rescue efforts.