LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A Nebraska state senator whose term expires in January says he plans to leave office early.

Sen. Scott Lautenbaugh of Omaha made the announcement Thursday. Lautenbaugh says he plans to focus on his law practice. He may also pursue work as a lobbyist.

Lautenbaugh thanked his colleagues in a letter. He says he appreciated the chance to serve despite a final year that he described as “joyless,” because of competing demands in the Legislature and his law practice while he cared for ailing parents.

Lautenbaugh, a Republican, was appointed by Gov. Dave Heineman in 2007. He was elected to finish his predecessor’s term in 2008, and re-elected to a four-year term in 2010. Republican Brett Lindstrom, an Omaha financial adviser, will take his legislative seat in January.