ALTON, Ill. (AP) — Illinois state Rep. Dan Beiser of Alton says he’s officially stepping down to spend more time with his family.

Beiser announced in August that he wouldn’t run for re-election in the 111th District seat so he could enjoy his retirement. On Sunday the Democrat said in a statement that he would step down effective that day.

Beiser was appointed to fill a vacancy left when former state Rep. Steve Davis of Bethalto resigned in 2004. He was elected and re-elected six times. Beiser is a former special education teacher,

Alton alderman and city treasurer. He said serving his community has been a privilege and “one of the greatest honors of my life.”