Rep. Simone Champagne will leave office at end of year

Rep. Simone Champagne has decided not to finish out her term in District 49.
Champagne announced on Wednesday she will resign at the end of December. She had one more year left in her second term.
A special election will have be held in 2015 to fill her seat.
“I am honored to have served the citizens of District 49,” said Simone on Wednesday. “I have, however, notified the Speaker of the House that as of December 31, I will leave the District 49 seat to pursue other opportunities. I’ve served our state and our district in the House of Representatives for nearly a decade and do not resign this position of trust lightly or with little thought.”
As of January 1, 2015, she will join the leadership team of Mayor-elect Ritter of the city of Youngsville.
“I am excited and honored to be joining this team of leaders, including the Mayor and City Council, in one of the fastest growing cities in Louisiana,” she said.
Ken Ritter, Mayor-elect, City of Youngsville voiced his excitement in Champagne’s arrival saying,  “I feel fortunate to have Rep Champagne join our team as Chief Administrative Officer.   I know that her knowledge and experience will serve the residents of Youngsville well.”  
“Representative Champagne has been a loud and clear voice for her constituents. I wish her the best and fully expect her to continue to serve this great state,” House Speaker Chuck Kleckley.