Lenczewski announces her resignation from House

(Updated with link to letter of resignation)

Rep. Ann Lenczewski

After more than two decades in elected office, Rep. Ann Lenczewski (DFL-Bloomington) will be resigning her legislative seat in 2015.

“Today I am announcing my retirement from the Minnesota House of Representatives. I want to thank the people of Bloomington for allowing me to be their state representative. It is humbling to have had the support of the community I grew up in,” she said in a statement. “I am proud to have been elected by Bloomington residents nine times to the Legislature and twice to the Bloomington City Council. It has been my great pleasure to work with Bloomington residents and people across Minnesota to solve problems.”

Considered by many to be an expert on state tax law, Lenczewski has been the DFL lead on the tax committee for much of her time in St. Paul; either as chair when her party was in control or as the DFL lead when the House is under Republican control.

MORE: View Rep. Ann Lenczewski's member page

MORE: View Lenczewski's letter of resignation

“Ann Lenczewski’s departure leaves a huge hole in the legislature," House Minority Leader Paul Thissen (DFL-Mpls) said in a statement. "Of course, there is no one at the Capitol – indeed, few in the entire state – who knew and cared as much about taxes. She leaves behind a fairer, structurally sound tax system for all Minnesotans."

Her next career move? Lenczewski has accepted a position with Lockridge, Grindal, Nauen P.L.L.P.

“It is time for someone else in Bloomington to bring ideas and advocacy to the Capitol. It is also time for me to return to the private sector. I, along with my husband and four children sincerely appreciate the support I have received over the 23 years I have been in office,” she said.