ATL Standard

State Representative Penny Houston (R-Nashville) has announced that she will not seek re-election to the Georgia House of Representatives after 26 years of service. In a statement released today, Rep. Houston expressed her gratitude to the people of South Georgia, stating, "Today, I'm sharing the bittersweet news that I've decided not to run for re-election this year. I feel like it's the right time to retire, spend more time with family and find new ways to contribute to my community."

Reflecting on her tenure in office, Rep. Houston acknowledged the changes that have occurred since she was first sworn into the statehouse in 1997. She commended the dedication of those working to improve the quality of life in Georgia, stating, "So much has changed since 1997 when I was sworn into the statehouse. But the dedication of the men and women working to make Georgia a better to live has remained constant."

Throughout her time in office, Representative Houston has represented the citizens of House District 170, which includes Berrien County and portions of Cook and Tift counties. She expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve as their voice at the Capitol, saying, "Serving in the House has been an honor, and I am so grateful to the people in rural Georgia for giving me the opportunity to be their voice at the Capitol."

As Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Economic Development, Rep. Houston has played a key role in shaping economic policies in the state. She reflected on the friendships, memories, and experiences she has gained during her time in office, describing them as a gift she will always treasure. In closing, she thanked the people of South Georgia, stating, "It has been the honor of a lifetime to represent the people of South Georgia, and from the bottom of my heart, thank you for giving me this opportunity to serve you."

With Rep. Penny Houston's decision not to seek re-election, the Georgia House of Representatives will bid farewell to a dedicated public servant who has served her constituents with integrity and commitment for over two decades.