HARRISBURG — Chairman of the House Health Committee, Rep. Matt Baker, R-Wellsboro, has announced that he will not seek re-election to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

Baker has served in the state House for more than 25 years, having been elected 13 times by residents of the 68th Legislative District.

Baker is one of the most senior members of the House Republican Caucus and has served as the Speaker Pro Tempore to four Republican speakers of the House.

In announcing his retirement, Baker said, “For the past 25 years of elected service, I have had the humble honor and privilege of serving the great citizens of the 68th District in Tioga, Bradford and Potter counties. The Bible says, ‘There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under heaven,’ and it is now time for me to begin a new chapter of service in my life as I consider new opportunities.”

During his tenure in the House, Baker has authored approximately 30 state laws and has distinguished himself as one of the most respected conservative Republican leaders. He has received more than 30 state and national awards and has been a long-time member of the Board of Governors of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education.