February 3rd Will Now be Known as 'Senator Joseph Palaia Day' in New Jersey

TRENTON -- A Joint Resolution to the New Jersey Legislature that designates February 3rd of each year as “Senator Joseph Palaia Day” in the State of New Jersey was signed into law Tuesday by Governor Christie. The resolution was introduced by local Assembly Members Eric Houghtaling and Joann Downey, who sought to commemorate Palaia’s legacy as a public servant and leader in bipartisanship.

“Joe served the people of Monmouth County for so many years, and always put his constituents first,” said Houghtaling (D-Monmouth), “This honor is altogether fitting.”

“Senator Palaia set a shining example for elected officials when it came to working hard and working together,” said Downey (D-Monmouth), “We are so happy the Governor saw fit to sign this resolution into law.”

Palaia, often called “Senator Joe,” was elected to the General Assembly in 1981 before being elected to the State Senate in 1989, where he served as President Pro Tempore from 1994 to 2003. A fierce advocate for the children of New Jersey, Palaia sought tirelessly to expand educational and medical services for children with disabilities, and was a sponsor of the New Jersey Childproof Handgun Law that was enacted in 2002.

In celebration of the new law, Houghtaling and Downey will be honoring Palaia’s life and legacy at a small reception on Tuesday, February 7th, 2017 at 6:00pm at their office in Ocean Township, 802 West Park Avenue, Suite 221, Ocean Township, NJ 07712. Those wishing to attend can RSVP to (732) 695-3371.