President Obama signing the 9/11 health bill into law. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

The law, officially titled James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, gives health coverage to workers who helped look for human remains and clear the debris from the 9/11 terrorist attacks nine years ago, kiling more than 2,700 people.

In addition, the legislation reopens the Victim Compensation Fund, which provides monetary relief to the victims of the attacks.

"We will never forget the selfless courage demonstrated by the firefighters, police officers, and first responders who risked their lives to save others," Obama said. "I believe this is a critical step for those who continue to bear the physical scars of those attacks."

The bill passed during the lame-duck Congress after facing tough opposition from some Republicans, who contended the legislation created a new entitlement program.

"At long last, the president's signature has ended our nine-year struggle to address the 9/11 health crisis," said Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, one of the authors of the bill, in a statement. "The Zadroga law will save lives and fulfills our moral obligation to care for those who rose to the defense of America in a time of war."

Read more reaction to the bill's signing from CNN.