The Association of American Railroads (AAR) issued the following statement on the passing of New Jersey Senator Frank R. Lautenberg, a highly respected veteran and an ardent supporter of America’s freight and passenger rail system. 

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Senator Lautenberg, who has been a true leader on rail transportation issues on Capitol Hill,” said AAR President and CEO Edward R. Hamberger.  “His door was always open, and he understood our nation’s interdependent intermodal supply chain and how important it is to America’s economy. “His dedication to protecting the environment and public health was also evident in his advocacy on key transportation issues.  For example, he supported legislative and regulatory initiatives that ensure private freight rail investments continue to help spur rail-intermodal growth, taking trucks off our nation’s already overburdened highways and lowering the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions. Frank Lautenberg will forever be remembered as a dedicated and loyal servant to America.”