After 22 years in the Mississippi House of Representatives, Rep. John Moore, R-Brandon, announced his retirement from the Legislature on Friday evening.

Moore, who had bypass surgery during the legislative session last March, cited on-going health concerns as his reason for leaving.

“Earlier this year I had a major health issue that caused me to rethink my ability to continue serving the people of Mississippi in this important position,” said Moore in the release.

Moore currently serves as chairman of the House Education Committee and as a member on the House  committees on Appropriations, Insurance, Judiciary B, Legislative Budget, Rules and Transportation.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank the people of District 60 in Rankin County for allowing me to represent you for the last 22 years,” said Moore. “I also want to thank my colleagues in the Mississippi House and Senate and all those who I have had an opportunity to work with over the years. It has been the greatest honor of my life.”

The 2018 legislative session begins Jan. 2. Gov. Phil Bryant will determine when a special election for House District 60 will be held, and Speaker of the House Philip Gunn will appoint a new chairman of the influential Education Committee.