[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 52 (Wednesday, March 22, 2023)]
[House]
[Page H1318]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING NEW JERSEY STATE SENATOR RONALD RICE

  (Mr. PAYNE asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. PAYNE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of one 
of New Jersey's most distinguished State senators.
  New Jersey State Senator Ronald Rice passed away on March 15. He 
spent more than 35 years serving the people of New Jersey's 28th 
District, and he was the longest serving Black legislator in our 
State's history.
  Senator Rice started as a Newark City Council member before he became 
a State senator, but his service to our community and our country 
extended beyond politics. Senator Rice was a sergeant in the Marine 
Corps and a decorated Vietnam veteran. He spent 8 years as a police 
detective and 4 years as Newark's deputy mayor.
  As a State senator, he was known for his strong advocacy for social 
justice and civil rights. His dedication to equality was known 
throughout the State.
  Senator Rice was an exceptional public servant, and I know his work 
for Newark and the people of New Jersey will be missed.

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