WASHINGTON, D.C. — Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued the following statement on the passing of New Jersey Senator Frank R. Lautenberg.

“Throughout his long Senate career, Frank Lautenberg established himself as a relentless fighter for groundbreaking public health and safety protections, and as someone who was stubborn to the core when it came to standing up for the New Jerseyans who sent him to Congress. These were the masterful traits that enabled him to take on and win the tough political and legislative fights of his career.

“Because of Frank’s unrelenting commitment to strengthening public health, the legal drinking age was raised to twenty-one nationwide, smoking was banned from domestic flights, and he stopped domestic abusers from getting their hands on a gun. 

“I worked closely with Frank on the Commerce Committee and I am grateful for that opportunity. Frank was a subcommittee chairman and an active member of our committee who led the modernization of airport runway and rail safety standards, and strengthened motorcycle helmet laws. He was well known for being an Amtrak booster and fought to secure key investments for the company that impacted states and communities, especially those in his beloved New Jersey. 

“Since his Army service in World War II, Frank Lautenberg blazed a path to success in business and public service that reflected tenacity and a strong moral compass. 

“My thoughts and prayers are with Frank’s wife, Bonnie, his children and grandchildren.”

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