Ranking Member Larsen Mourns the Loss of Representative Donald M. Payne, Jr.
Everett, WA—Today, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Rick Larsen (D-WA) issued the following statement mourning the loss of Representative Donald M. Payne, Jr. (D-NJ), who served as the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials:
“I am deeply saddened by the loss of my colleague and friend, Donald M. Payne, Jr. His dedication and work helped advance key legislation, including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the PIPES Act of 2020, which have improved the safe and reliable transportation of people and goods, benefiting the lives of every American.
“During his time as Chair of the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials, Donald fought for investment in our infrastructure with an emphasis on increasing transportation accessibility, and laid the groundwork for strong rail funding in the BIL as well as advancing the PIPES Act of 2023 through Committee. Thanks to his leadership, this record funding has already left an indelible mark on working families, communities across the country and the economy.
“Donald was a fierce friend and advocate for rail workers, supporting their bid for sick leave, higher wages, and improved working conditions. His efforts helped support a historic agreement that would strengthen the safety and quality of life for our essential rail workers. His work to advance rail safety legislation, especially in the wake of the derailment in East Palestine, will remain an important part of his legacy that Congress must continue to realize.
“I offer my heartfelt condolences to his wife Beatrice, and their three children, Donald III, Jack, and Yvonne, and to the people of New Jersey that he represented dutifully for over a decade.”
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