LYNCHBURG, Va. – A Virginia legislator is stepping down. Lynchburg State Senator Steve Newman announced his retirement yesterday.

The Republican has spent 35 years serving the Commonwealth in several capacities, but currently represents the 23rd District.

This past General Assembly session, Newman sponsored a bill that would have limited abortion after 15 weeks because scientists believe that is when babies are pain capable. The measure died in a Democratic-controlled Senate committee.

Newman says he is looking forward to spending time with his family, which includes a new grandchild.

He is the 21st state lawmaker to announce retirement this year.