Congress has set aside billions of dollars to compensate and treat people suffering from illnesses potentially caused by clouds of soot and smoke released during the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks.
But the program doesn't cover cancer, which scientists have not conclusively linked to trade center toxins.
Panel members meeting in New York agreed Thursday that some cancer patients should be covered by the program, but they were uncertain whether to extend it to all types of the disease or just some.
The committee's recommendation is due by March 2. Its advice can then either be accepted or rejected by the program's administrator.
In Walla Walla, Wash., same-sex marriage finds an unlikely Republican champion.
In Room for Debate: why the nation is struggling, despite international aid and steep budget cuts.