NEW IBERIA, La. (KPEL) -- State Rep. Simone Champagne has announced she will not run for re-election of her District 49 seat in 2015.

Champagne announced Wednesday she still intends to serve the people of the Louisiana gulf coast, saying, "You do not have to have a title to be a leader."

During her tenure at the state house, Champagne said she helped benefit the economy through "tax cuts, lower tax rates, and promoting the best use of taxpayers' dollars."

Champagne said she also fought against the oil and gas moratorium and was an advocate for coastal protection.

Champagne's announcement leaves plenty of time for anyone interested in running for her seat to prepare, she said.

Champagne joined Nathan Pike and Ian Auzenne on "Your Afternoon Drive Home" to talk about her retirement. Click the 'Play' below to listen to the full interview.

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