ShawneeDispatch.com

State Rep. Judy Morrison, who has represented the 23rd District in the Kansas House of Representatives since 1999, has decided against seeking re-election.

Morrison, a Republican, said her decision was based in part on ongoing health issues.

The 67-year-old model and conservative this past month received one of the National Rifle Association's 2008 Defenders of Freedom awards at the NRA national convention in Louisville, Ky.

"I'm happy to leave with this under my belt," said Morrison, who helped lead the charge for Kansas' conceal-carry law.

The award was established in 1995 to recognize state legislators and governors who consistently go out of their way, through their actions and achievements, to show their support of the Second Amendment.

"This award was given to Rep. Morrison for her tireless efforts to support the Second Amendment in the state of Kansas," NRA state liaison Jordon Austin said. "She has always been a tremendous supporter of the National Rifle Association. Based on the political makeup of hers and her surrounding districts, she has stood firm in her beliefs and not waivered in her support. Back in the early days of concealed carry legislation, Judy testified in support of this issue and provided personal experiences which were invaluable to the cause. She has always been vocal and out spoken in her support of the Second Amendment."

Morrison, who was appointed to the 23rd District seat in 1999 to fill out an unexpired term, said she had always worked in the Legislature with members from both sides of the aisle.

This year, she led the National Foundation for Women Legislators, the largest women's legislative group in the United States.

Morrison served on the House Federal and State Affairs, Energy and Utilities and Economic Development and Tourism committees.