The Colorectal Cancer Alliance is deeply saddened by the death of Representative Donald Payne Jr. of New Jersey, a trailblazer who worked tirelessly to pass legislation that promoted colorectal cancer awareness, screening, and equity. His dedication to public service and advocacy leaves a lasting legacy, and his contributions to the colorectal cancer community will be remembered fondly. During his tenure in Congress, Payne Jr. was a vocal proponent of legislation advancing improvements in colorectal cancer prevention, screening, and care. He sponsored the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act, which would require insurance to pay for colonoscopies that include the removal of polyps. He also introduced the Donald Payne Sr. Colorectal Cancer Detection Act, in honor of his father who died of the disease. The Act required Medicare to cover FDA-approved blood tests for colorectal cancer screening.  Payne Jr. introduced a resolution to address health disparities among Black Americans, and he was also instrumental in lowering the recommended screening age for colorectal cancer from 50 to 45, in response to the growing incidence of young-onset cases. “The death of Donald Payne Jr. is a significant loss to the Alliance and to the entire colorectal cancer community,” said Michael Sapienza, CEO of the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. “He was a catalyst for change and a beacon of hope who elevated our mission to end colorectal cancer. We will continue to honor his legacy as we work to improve and expand access to colorectal cancer awareness, prevention, screening, and care.”