RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Prince William County Democratic state Sen. Charles J. Colgan plans to retire next year when his term expires.

The longest-serving lawmaker in the General Assembly tells the Richmond Times-Dispatch (http://bit.ly/1iJHybu ) he’s rejected Gov. Terry McAuliffe’s multiple requests to run for another term.

The 87-year-old has served in the Senate since 1976.

Republicans currently hold a one-seat advantage in the Senate. Democratic Caucus Chairman Sen. A. Donald McEachin says his party is preparing for Colgan’s retirement.

Former Democratic state Sen. Phil Puckett abruptly quit the upper chamber earlier this month.

Colgan’s planned retirement was first reported by the Gainesville Times.

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Information from: Richmond Times-Dispatch, http://www.timesdispatch.com

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