Rep. Christopher Smith (R-Manchester) released the following statement on the death of Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-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.”