State Sen. Richard Codey - a former governor - will retire, ending 50 years in the New Jersey Legislature.

Codey, the longest-serving lawmaker in New Jersey, will serve out the rest of his Senate term until January. He says the decision to retire has nothing to do with his health.

Codey’s first race was in November of 1973. He was sworn in the following January. In a Facebook post, Codey says he has fond memories of his 14 months as governor after Jim McGreevey.

Codey says he’s “proud” of the work he’s done in the Legislature, as New Jersey’s longest-serving legislator and during his time as New Jersey’s 53rd governor.

“I’ve been your Assemblyman, your Senator and your Governor. Now, it’s time to trade all those trips to Trenton for more time as a husband, father and grandpa,” Codey wrote in the post.

“I’ve fought to pass laws that matter to all New Jerseyans, especially people who don’t always have a voice or the ability to be heard. From mental health and addiction services to bans on indoor smoking and championing our toughest-in-the-nation gun laws. I've fought for who and what I believe in, even when it wasn't easy.”

In a statement, Assemblyman John F. McKeon said he’s honored to have served alongside Codey, who he calls his “dear friend for the past 21 years.”

“His unwavering dedication to our great state, spanning half a century, is a testament to his passion. His impactful legislative achievements have significantly improved the lives of countless New Jerseyans and have left an indelible mark on the fabric of New Jersey politics,” McKeon said.

“Governor Codey's retirement indeed marks the end of an era in New Jersey politics, but his legacy will continue to inspire and shape the state's future for years to come.”