Paul G. Rogers | 'Mr. Health' lawmaker, 87

Paul G. Rogers, 87, who earned the nickname "Mr. Health" for his work on environmental and health-care legislation during 24 years in Congress, has died.

Mr. Rogers died Monday at a rehabilitation hospital in Washington, his brother, Doyle Rogers, said. He had recently undergone an operation for lung cancer.

Elected in Florida to fill a seat left vacant by his father's death, he served in the U.S. House from 1955 to 1979.

His nickname came from his position as chairman of the House Subcommittee on Health and the Environment for eight years. He left a legacy of health-care legislation, including his work on the National Cancer Act of 1971, the Safe Drinking Water Act, and the Clean Air Act.Rogers joined the law firm of Hogan & Hartson after leaving Congress. The federal courthouse in West Palm Beach bears his name.

- AP