Rep. JoAnn Ward will not seek fourth term

Rep. JoAnn Ward (DFL-Woodbury) announced Wednesday she will not run for re-election in 2018.

The three-term House member said in a statement that it has been an honor and a privilege to serve in the Legislature, but she is ready to spend more time with her family and explore other avenues of public service.

“Reaching this decision has been challenging, because I love serving my community and making a real difference in the lives of people all over the state,” Ward said.

Ward currently serves on several House committees, including Education Innovation Policy; Public Safety and Security Policy and Finance; and State Government Finance.

She has also served on the Environment and Natural Resources, Health and Human Services, Veterans Affairs, and Government Operations committees, since first being elected in 2012.

“I am grateful for the collaborations and friendships that have grown over these years,” Ward said. “With the help of other representatives, senators, advocacy groups and citizens, we have made progress across a wide range of issues.”