State Sen. Tolleson retires after Alzheimer's diagnosis

ATLANTA (AP) State Lawmaker Ross Tolleson says he will retire from the state senate after being diagnosed with early stages of Alzheimer's disease.

In a statement released Tuesday, Tolleson says his retirement is effective Nov. 1. Since 2003 the Republican from Perry has represented District 20, which includes Bleckley, Laurens and Pulaski counties and most of Houston County.

Tolleson says the diagnosis was a disappointment but he will meet the challenge "head on.'' He plans to focus on his family.

Tolleson is chairman of the Senate Natural Resources and Environment Committee. He is 59.