Dr. Lawrence S. Feinsod, executive director of the New Jersey School Boards Association, today extended condolences to the family of Sen. Anthony R. Bucco.
Bucco, 81, died on Sept. 16 at St. Clare’s Hospital in Denville after a heart attack. A state lawmaker for the past 24 years, he was the Republican Conference Leader, and had previously served as Co-Republican Majority Leader, Republican Budget Officer, Deputy Minority Leader and Assistant Minority Leader.
He represented the 25th Legislative District, which includes parts of Morris and Somerset counties, since 1995. He first served in the state Assembly before being elected to the Senate in 1998. A native of Boonton, he had also previously held office as an alderman in the township, mayor, and a Morris County freeholder.
Bucco served on several Senate committees, including the Select Committee on Economic Growth Strategies; Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens; Labor; and the Intergovernmental Relations Commission.
Most recently he was a sponsor of a law enacted this summer that requires school districts to incorporate age-appropriate sexual abuse and assault awareness and prevention education in grades Pre-K- 12 as part of the curriculum standards in health and physical education.
He was also a frequent participant in Morris County School Boards Association meetings, talking with local board members about school and education concerns.
“Senator Bucco was a dedicated public servant who championed the interests of student safety and learning,” said Feinsod, “We extend our deepest sympathy to his family.”
He is survived by his wife Helen; their son, Anthony M. Bucco, who serves in the state Assembly from the 25th district; and his grandchildren.