Assemblyman Joe DeStefano (R,C-Medford) announced the passage of legislation that would grant long-overdue disability retirement benefits to the widow of Suffolk County Deputy Sheriff Richard Stueber, who served in the World Trade Center rescue, recovery and cleanup operations following the September 11 terrorist attacks.

The bill (A.8645A) would allow Richard Stueber’s wife, Stacie, to receive a 75% accidental disability retirement benefit, which her late husband was denied despite his recognized service and eligibility. Deputy Stueber, who suffered from mental illness linked to his work at Ground Zero, tragically took his own life while awaiting final action on his retirement application.

“Deputy Sheriff Richard Stueber answered the call when our nation needed him most,” said DeStefano. “He served with honor at Ground Zero and developed serious health complications as a direct result of that service. Denying his family the benefits he earned is not only unjust, it’s unbelievable. This legislation is about doing the right thing for a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice and for the family he left behind.”

Despite being accepted into the Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Program and awarded a favorable 75% accidental disability retirement ruling by the New York State and Local Retirement System in March 2020, Deputy Stueber was later deemed ineligible due to a technical change in state law that took effect after he filed his claim. Because he was forced to take his service pension early, he lost critical eligibility.

“Richard should never have had to fight for benefits he clearly earned. This bill ensures that his wife, Stacie, receives the support he died waiting for,” DeStefano added. “It sends a clear message: New York does not forget its 9/11 heroes or their families.”

DeStefano has long advocated for the rights and well-being of first responders and their families and said he remains committed to ensuring that every 9/11 responder receives the care, respect, and recognition they deserve.