Haas, who is entering her 16th, and final, year in the legislature, said she has been considering stepping down for some time.

 

“Clearly it had to come sooner or later,” she said, “and I think what really encouraged me is that I found someone who was ready and capable and that I would be very happy representing me.”

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Kirk White, of Bethel, is planning to run for Haas’ seat in 2020 as a Democrat—and Haas is hopeful that his bid will be successful.

 

“We are a citizen legislature,” said Haas. “It’s time for new energy and for someone in our district to have as much fun as I have.”

 

(Excerpt from The Herald 10/24/19 article, "Rep. Haas Will Not Seek Reëlection" BY ZOË NEWMARCO)