Holyoke State Representative Aaron Vega says he's not running for re-election to the Massachusetts House.
The four-term Democrat said he wants to spend more time with his family — including his 6-year-old son — and the travel associated with the job has been hard.
Vega, 49, told NEPR that moving forward, he'd like to do something in line with what his priorities have been on Beacon Hill.
"Higher education, economic development, addressing the food insecurity issues — those things I've been working on at the state level, I kind of want to keep working, but in a more localized and focused fashion," he said.
Vega said he doesn't have a new job lined up, but quipped he has until the end of his term — 11 months — to find something.
Vega's legislative aide, Patricia Duffy, has filed paperwork with state campaign finance officials signaling her intent to run for the seat. He lauded Duffy's efforts on behalf of constituents over the last seven years.
"I'd be proud to support her," he said. "I think she'd be a great representative."
The 5th Hampden District covers all of Holyoke.
The city will also have a new state senator, as Republican Don Humason stepped down to become the mayor of Westfield. A special election for that seat will take place in March.