A Metro Atlanta state lawmaker is resigning.

State Representative Len Walker says, he plans to submit his resignation to Governor Nathan Deal in 10 days.

He'll become senior chaplain at a church in North Georgia's Pickens County.

"It's been a great priviledge," Walk says. "I've had a wonderful opportunity. The people have elected and re-elected me for nine terms. But it's time to move on."

The Gwinnett County Republican has served in the legislature for 17 years, most recently on the House Higher Education Committee.

Walker's resignation weeks before the General Assembly sets up a possible special election in mid January when lawmakers are just starting the legislative session.

Tags: General Assembly, GPB News, state lawmakers, Governor Nathan Deal, Len Walker, Loganville