Sacramento, California - Governor Gavin Newsom released the following statement today after learning of the passing of Bernard J. Tyson, chairman and CEO of Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc. and Kaiser Hospitals.

“Jennifer and I are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of health care pioneer and our dear friend Bernard Tyson. Bernard’s vision and influence made an impact at home and abroad, and he led with excellence on behalf of millions of Kaiser patients and thousands of employees. We will always remember how he made health care accessible for so many while paving the way for countless professionals of color to pursue leadership roles in health care and corporate America.

"Our thoughts are with Denise, the Tyson family, and all at Kaiser Permanente who were inspired by Bernard’s leadership and example."