Berks County Republican state Rep. Barry Jozwiak (R-Berks) announced his intention to retire at the end of this term.

“It has been both an honor and pleasure to serve the people of Berks County through the years,” said Jozwiak. “As state representative, over the months ahead, I look forward to continuing to help the residents of the 5th District solve their state-related problems, while continuing to create jobs; seek tax reform; defend our Constitution; and assist our veterans, first responders and law enforcement in Harrisburg.”

Jozwiak is completing his fifth term representing the taxpayers of the 5th District as a member of the General Assembly. Prior to his current House of Representatives service, Jozwiak served as sheriff of Berks County for 12 years, and as a member of the Pennsylvania State Police for 25 years. Additionally, Jozwiak is a U.S. Navy veteran, a past Bern Township supervisor, and past president of the Pennsylvania Sheriffs’ Association.

As for his reasons, Jozwiak said, “I’m healthy. It’s just time in my life to retire.”

Jozwiak has authored and sponsored a wide variety of legislation aimed at improving the lives of Pennsylvanians. Over the years he has helped thousands of people in the district with state-related issues and helped bring millions of dollars into the district to help townships and boroughs with their infrastructure.

He currently serves as the Republican chairman of the House Children and Youth Committee in the General Assembly. He is also a member of the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau and has strongly supported the concept of family farms while recognizing the critical role agriculture plays in the Commonwealth’s economy.

Jozwiak and his wife, Margie, reside in Bern Township, and have one daughter and two grandchildren.