Lynn Smith to retire after 30 years under Georgia’s Gold Dome

State Rep. Lynn Smith, R-Newnan, announced her retirement Monday ending a 30-year career under the Gold Dome.

Smith represents House District 70 and was first elected in 1996. She said she will complete her term through November’s elections.

“I’m incredibly proud of how we’ve worked to improve Georgia’s prosperity and quality of life while also protecting the state’s beauty, history, and environmental legacy,” Smith said in an announcement.

Smith serves as the chair of the House Natural Resources and Environment Committee, which examines legislation related to pollution, water safety and waste.

Throughout her tenure, Smith has shaped Georgia’s regional water planning framework and championed the Statewide Water Management Planning Act, which balances sustainability with economic growth in water use, according to the Newnan Times-Herald.

Smith faced challenges and disputes throughout her career, including voting to change the Georgia state flag and receiving criticism from her own party over redistricting.

“I thought about quitting,” Smith said. “Then, I thought, you know what? No. There are a lot of good people. I’m not turning my back on our history, but I am turning my back on cruelty.”