SA Legislator Who Fought For Veteran Rights Won't Seek Re-Election

A Vietnam Veteran who has served in the Texas House since 2007 won another battle before announcing that he won't seek re-election.

Farias was key in forcing a May 24 bi-partisan compromise over a bill that would have scaled back a program that provides tuition exemptions to Veterans.

In an interview with the San Antonio Express-News, Farias said he was stepping down to care for his wife, who is handicapped.

"She's allowed me to continue to serve these last couple of terms," Farias told the newspaper.

Farias is a lifelong resident of House District 118, which encompasses parts of the South Side, South Bexar County and stretching north, surrounding an area around Randolph Air Force Base.

He's a graduate of McCollum High School and volunteered for the Army in 1968, serving in Vietnam and in Berlin, Germany. 

When Farias announced his resignation, his fellow legislators expressed their appreciation.

Rep. Walle honors Rep. Farias as he leaves the House. Rep. Blanco salutes him. #TXLege pic.twitter.com/997qOACBWf

— Diego Bernal (@DiegoBernalTX) June 1, 2015

Hate 2 C @RepJoeFarias go but glad he's goin 2spend mo time w Angie & Co. It's been privilege 2sit nxt 2him. #txlege pic.twitter.com/s8p16svrS6

— Armando Walle (@RepWalle) June 1, 2015

Another great one leaves us as @RepJoeFarias retires from the TX House. It's been an honor to serve with you! #txlege pic.twitter.com/GBux3O9ruu

— Charlie Geren (@charliegeren) June 1, 2015