Today, Earthjustice mourns the death of Senator Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ), who died this morning after a long illness.

Sen. Frank Lautenberg.

The U.S. Senate’s oldest member and New Jersey’s longest-serving senator, Sen. Lautenberg was a dogged environmental champion known for his unwavering commitment to protect all Americans from harmful chemicals in our air, land and water. From championing Superfund, to fixing the weak and outdated Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976, Sen. Lautenberg will be remembered for his work to breathe new life into what he called “a long-dead statute” by proposing that the EPA be empowered to get tough on toxic chemicals. Sen. Lautenberg said of the issue: “Chemical safety reform is not a Democratic or Republican issue, it is a common-sense issue.”

The following statement is from Earthjustice President Trip Van Noppen:

“The Senate and our nation have lost a guardian for the health, safety and environmental quality of our homes, workplaces and communities. Sen. Lautenberg passed vital laws that kept NJ’s drinking water clean, combatted climate change, and aimed to keep our communities, oceans and waterways clear from toxic waste. Sen. Lautenberg also was known for his steadfast commitment to protecting all Americans, especially children, from the risks of toxic chemicals.

“Congress must carry forth his legacy and fight for protections against toxic chemicals. We call on more Congressional leaders to protect Americans’ public health and the environment.”