Rep. David Frizzell (R-Indianapolis) will resign from his seat later this year, halfway through his term.

The Indianapolis Republican was first elected to the House in 1992; he’s one of the longest-serving current members of the General Assembly. Frizzell’s announcement took some of his colleagues by surprise. But he says his wife has health issues and he wants to spend as much time with her as possible.

“You have to make the decision first for God and then your family,” Frizzell says.

Lawmakers approved an honoring resolution for Frizzell, as they do for all departing members. And Frizzell used the occasion to deliver a final message on the House floor.

“For those who may not have Christ in their life, I’ve got good news for you: he will always pursue you,” Frizzell says.

Republican precinct committeepeople will choose Frizzell’s replacement later this year.