Indiana lawmaker Ann Vermilion, who broke ranks with Republicans, stepping down

Rep. Ann Vermilion announced on Facebook late Friday that she is resigning her legislative position in the Indiana House of Representatives effective Monday.

The Marion Republican submitted a resignation letter to House Speaker Todd Huston on Friday, and a spokesman for Vermilion provided a copy of the letter to IndyStar. The legislature concluded its 2023 session early Friday.

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Vermilion, who broke with Republican ranks on abortion and transgender bills in the last two years, said in her resignation letter and Facebook post that she looks forward to spending time with family,

"It has been the honor of my lifetime to serve Indiana and the residence of District 31," Vermilion wrote. "Unequivocally, the decision to leave public office was made without hesitation, with utter peace and anticipation of our family’s future endeavors.

"Nearly all of my family members will be enjoying pinnacle stages in life’s journey; scholastically, athletically, professionally and I am thrilled to walk alongside them, supporting them in these upcoming months, years and lifetimes," she added.

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Vermilion split from her party last year by voting against a near-total abortion ban. This year she did not join other Republicans in supporting a ban on gender-affirming health care for transgender youth.

Vermilion is the owner of a health care and public health consultancy. She was appointed to her seat in 2019, replacing former Rep. Kevin Mahan, R-Hartford, after he took an executive director job in the Community Health Network. She filled the remainder of his term and ran unopposed to retain the seat in 2022.

In her Facebook post, she endorsed Lori Goss-Reaves, a licensed clinical social worker and adjunct professor at Indiana Wesleyan University, in the GOP caucus to fill the District 31 seat. The district includes portions of Grant and Madison counties.

In a separate Facebook post, the Grant County Republican Party thanked Vermilion for her service.

"Just as you filled large shoes of your predecessor Kevin Mahan, our next steps as a district require the same strength and governance you have shown. Very best in your next act."