State Rep. Justin Simmons, R-131st House Dist., will not run for re-election in 2020. He made the announcement not to seek a sixth term Thursday in a news release from his office.

            Initially elected in 2010, Simmons focused on promoting commonsense limited government policies that helped protect the taxpayers of Pennsylvania, increase free market competition, and spark job growth. He also prioritized his effort for government reforms that reduce the power of career legislators.

            The legislator – whose district includes communities in Montgomery, Lehigh and Northampton counties – listed his top accomplishments as sponsoring bills that became law that expanded the use of voter approval of local government borrowing in Home Rule counties like Lehigh County; helped better protect homeless infants by providing critical early intervention services; and provided civil immunity for school bus drivers and crossing guards who must administer epinephrine injections (epi-pens) to save the lives of children experiencing allergic reactions.

            Simmons, 33, also touted his role in helping pass historic pension reforms and liquor sales reforms to bring both systems "more in-line with today's world," according to the news release issued Dec. 19.

            "I am proud of the record I have built advocating for the principles I have espoused throughout my career while still working across the aisle," said the legislator, whose district includes East Greenville, Red Hill and Pennsburg boroughs as well as Upper Hanover, Upper Milford and Lower Milford townships. "My service in the State House is, and always will be, a highlight in both my professional and personal life."

            In his five terms in Harrisburg, Simmons helped secure multiple grants for his constituents. He also opposed the dissolution of the Upper Perk Police Department and fought a proposed quarry in Lower Milford Township, according to the information.