Assemblyman Joseph M. Giglio (R,C-Gowanda) announced Friday that he won’t seek re-election in November for the 148th Assembly District seat he’s held for nearly two decades.

“It has been the greatest privilege of my life to be able to serve the people of the 148th Assembly district and I will always be grateful to them for the opportunity they’ve given me to represent them in the New York State Assembly,” Giglio said. “A sacred trust is formed when someone votes for you, chooses you, to faithfully represent them and fight for their best interests.

“I have fought, and will continue to fight, for the people of the 148th Assembly District. I don’t have to be in Albany to do that.”

Giglio has represented the 148th Assembly District for 19 years. He will serve the remainder of his current term which ends Dec. 31.

The 148th Assembly District spans three counties, including all of Cattaraugus County, all of Allegany County and the towns of Greenwood, Jasper, Troupsburg and West Union in Steuben County.

“I’ve been in the Assembly 19 years this June. Nineteen and a half when my term ends in December,” Giglio said. “It’s time to step away and give someone else a chance to represent the district. But this isn’t a retirement. I’m looking forward to the next chapter.”

Giglio has dedicated his professional career to public service. Prior to running for office in 2005, he served as New York State Deputy Inspector General. As Deputy Inspector General, Giglio led investigations into alleged criminal activity, fraud, waste and abuse within state agencies. He also investigated alleged criminal activity by private individuals and companies that do business with New York State. His efforts to root out corruption saved taxpayers’ dollars and eliminated government waste.

Prior to joining the Inspector General’s Office, Giglio served as a special assistant in the New York State Attorney General’s office, with responsibility for coordinating efforts with all branches of government. He was also a member of the Erie County Sheriff’s Office and the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office.

Giglio said his law enforcement experience helped him be an effective advocate for the Southern Tier in Albany.

Joe Sempolinski, who briefly served in the U.S. House of Representatives, has filed to seek election in this seat.