Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester), the Dean of the New Jersey Congressional Delegation, today issued the following statement on the passing of Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. of Paterson:

            “Bill’s life was marked by steadfast public service to the people of his beloved state and country, having served in the U.S. Army and as a high school history teacher and adjunct professor before becoming a state assemblyman, mayor, and congressman.

            He was dedicated to New Jersey families and an outspoken advocate especially for our law enforcement community, our firefighters, and our Nation’s veterans.

            As co-chair and founder of the Congressional Brain Injury Task Force, Bill also helped lead the charge to advance brain health. Earlier this year, I was proud to be the lead cosponsor of his resolution to designate a National Huntington’s Disease Awareness Month to raise public awareness and support for those who suffer from this terrible degenerative brain disorder.

            My wife Marie and I offer our prayers and condolences to his family, friends and loved ones.”

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