The bill, S-4170, would designate the State House Complex Welcome Center in Trenton the “Governor Richard J. Codey Welcome Center.”
“It’s fitting that the facility welcoming visitors to the center of State Government in New Jersey is named after Governor Codey,” said Senator Scutari. “Dick Codey gained legendary status as a consummate public servant with a down-to-earth personality who everyone could relate to. His long and distinguished career in both houses of the Legislature, as Senate President and as Governor leaves a record of accomplishment that will continue to benefit the people of New Jersey.”
The longest serving legislator in state history, Governor Codey was first elected to the General Assembly in 1973 at 27 years old. After serving 10 years in the Assembly, he was elected to the Senate, where he served for 42 years, including eight years as Senate President. During his tenure as Senate President, he served as Acting Governor on multiple occasions. Codey became New Jersey’s 53rd Governor in 2004, where he served for 14 months.
“Governor Codey had a unique and successful career as a public official who always put the needs of the people of New Jersey first,” said Senator McKeon, who succeeded Codey as a Senator. “He was compassionate and caring, using his influence to help the disadvantaged, those struggling with adversity, suffering illnesses or experiencing challenges in their lives. Dick Codey was one of the most accomplished and popular elected leaders the state has known. I am proud to call him my mentor and my friend.”
Governor Codey’s public service career was defined by numerous achievements, including increased funding for mental health care, championing stem cell research, establishing the state’s charity care program, banning smoking in state buildings, creating a prescription drug program for seniors, increasing the age to legally purchase tobacco to 21 and initiating drug and steroid testing for high school athletes. He also fought for stronger gun control standards, to establish GPS tracking for sex offenders, and laws cracking down on internet predators.
The Senate vote was 38-1.
Governor Richard Codey, a longtime public servant and former Governor of New Jersey, is set to be honored with the naming of the Statehouse Welcome Center in his honor. The announcement was made by Governor Phil Murphy, who praised Codey for his dedication to the state and his years of service.
Codey, who served as Governor from 2004 to 2006, is known for his commitment to improving mental health services in New Jersey and his efforts to combat stigma surrounding mental illness. He has also been a strong advocate for education and healthcare reform during his time in office.
The Statehouse Welcome Center, which serves as the main entrance to the New Jersey Statehouse, will now bear Codey’s name as a tribute to his contributions to the state. The center is a hub for visitors and tourists looking to learn more about New Jersey’s history and government.
Governor Murphy praised Codey for his leadership and dedication to the people of New Jersey, stating that he is a “true public servant” who has made a lasting impact on the state. He also highlighted Codey’s work on mental health issues, calling him a “champion for those who often go unheard.”
The naming of the Statehouse Welcome Center in honor of Governor Codey is a fitting tribute to a man who has dedicated his life to serving the people of New Jersey. It serves as a reminder of his legacy and the impact he has had on the state’s government and its citizens.
In addition to the naming of the Welcome Center, Governor Murphy also announced that a plaque will be installed in the center to commemorate Codey’s achievements and contributions to New Jersey. The plaque will serve as a permanent reminder of his legacy and his commitment to public service.
Overall, the naming of the Statehouse Welcome Center in honor of Governor Codey is a well-deserved tribute to a man who has dedicated his life to serving the people of New Jersey. It serves as a reminder of his legacy and the impact he has had on the state’s government and its citizens.
