Embattled State Rep. From Austin Dawnna Dukes Announces 'Retirement'

AUSTIN, TX -- Embattled State Rep. Dawnna Dukes is set to resign her seat in the Texas House come January, according to a published report.

Harvey Kronberg's Quorum Report, a Texas political website, broke the news on Monday. Dukes is facing a criminal investigationover alleged misuse of state funds, but she cited health issues stemming from a 2013 automobile accident as the reason for her imminent departure.

Dukes, an 11-term Democrat from Austin, said her health issues prevent her from fulfilling the duties of her office. But the announcement comes on the heels of Texas Rangers and Travis County district attorney's office investigations into her use of state resources for non-governmental purposes, including the use of staff to perform personal work on her behalf, as the Austin American-Statesman reported.

“This has been a very difficult decision to make," Dukes said in a prepared statement. "However, in light of my ongoing health issues and concerns, I find that I can no longer provide the active, effective leadership that is needed to continue my sworn duties,” she said. “I must take the time to focus all of my energy to heal and continue to provide for my young daughter and extended family.”

Dukes' resignation is effective Jan. 10, according to the Quorum Report. Her name still will appear on the Nov. 8 ballot, however. Should she win in absentia against her Republican oppenent Gabriel Nila, the state's governor would have to call a special election to fill the seat, the news site reported.

Dukes’ district includes parts of East Austin, North Austin, Pflugerville and Manor.

>>> Photo via Texas House of Representatives