Rep. John Peterson said he plans to step down at the end of the year, one of several local lawmakers who have recently announced their retirement.

Peterson plans to step down at the end of the year. He was first elected in 1996 and represents parts of Centre and Clearfield counties. Over the last few months, he has fought efforts to put tolls on Interstate 80.

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Bob Bastian, 69th district Republican, said he also won't seek re-election this year. According to the Somerset Daily American, the 69-year-old Bastian will step down after completing his fifth term in December.

Bastian said the demands of the job have become too great and he would like to spend more time with his family. His district covers parts of Somerset and Bedford counties.

His decision follows recent retirement announcements from two Cambria County Democrats: Tom Yewcic of the 72nd District and Ed Wojnoroski of the 71st District.

Another well-known Johnstown figure is throwing his hat into the rig for one of those seats. Former Johnstown Tribune Democrat publisher Chris Voccio announced Thursday morning that he is a candidate for Yewcic's seat.

Voccio will run as a Republican.

Another candidate, Scott Hunt, also announced he is running for Yewcic's seat.