TRENTON — Acting Governor Way on Nov 7th, signed Executive Order No. 370, ordering U.S. and New Jersey flags to fly at half-staff from Friday, November 8, 2024, through Sunday, November 10, 2024, in recognition and mourning of a dedicated legislator and public servant, Speaker Garabed “Chuck” Haytaian.
 
Speaker Haytaian passed away on November 1, 2024, at the age of 86. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Joan, and is survived by his brother, John; his children, David, Debbie, and Darrell; six cherished grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Before entering public service, Speaker Haytaian began his career as an engineer working on the Lunar Excursion Module at Grumman Aerospace. In 1975, he was elected as a Warren County Freeholder, and in 1981, he joined the New Jersey General Assembly, where he later served as Speaker from 1992 to 1996. During his tenure, Speaker Haytaian prioritized tax reform and worked to make New Jersey one of the first states to mandate that its public schools teach the history of the Holocaust and other genocides. 
“Speaker Haytaian was a giant across New Jersey politics,” said Acting Governor Way. “Born to survivors of the Armenian Genocide, Speaker Chuck Haytaian devoted his life to serving the people of New Jersey. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his loved ones and remain forever grateful for his legacy of service.”
 
For a copy of Executive Order No. 370, click here.