Lawyers representing New York City have asked a federal judge to throw out the medical claims filed by some 4,600 firefighters, cops, and paramedics who were 9/11 first responders, claiming they are not entitled to workplace protection under state labor laws.

While New York’s Bravest and Finest fought smoldering fires at Ground Zero, dug for human remains and guarded the toxic disaster site for months, “The uniformed plaintiffs do not fall within the class of employees entitled to the protections of the labor law,” city lawyer James Tyrrell argues in a motion filed in Manhattan federal court.

Ground Zero responders, hailed by the world as heroes, are understandably furious, calling the legal maneuver “a slap in the face.”

“I’m furious,” said ex-detective Mike Valentin, 45, who retired on disability from the NYPD in 2007 with severe lung disease and other ailments. Valentin carries an oxygen tank, sleeps with a machine that helps him breathe, and was recently diagnosed with kidney disease.

“There is a special place in hell reserved for Mike Bloomberg,” said Valentin, a father of three who launched the 9/11 Police Aid Foundation to help other ill and struggling responders.

“The callous indifference shown by the mayor enrages me. It’s really sad that the city is protecting the contractors more than its unformed services.”

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Coalition Wants City To Honor 9/11 Health Claims   NY1 News 3/19/09