Eleven-year legislator Byron Harward is resigning from the state House of Representatives because of work commitments and the desire to move his family into a larger house outside his Provo district.
Harward, R-Provo, said Tuesday that contrary to early media reports, "I'm not sacrificing my legislative career for a crippled wife. My wife is not crippled, and I've been thinking about this for some time." Harward said his wife, Terry Ann, does have a condition that could lead to arthritis, and his current house has a lot of stairs.But he's leaving the House in mid-November because of time demands of his company, Code-Co., a law publishing firm. "Especially during the general session, I can't give enough time to my firm and my constituents - it isn't fair to both."
Harward, 47, said he plans to relocate in Utah County on property where he can keep his horses, the passionate hobby of him and his family. "I may run for the House again if my work eases up and the opportunity arises."
Harward, a former member of House GOP leadership, is the parliamentarian. He has consistently been listed in the Deseret News' biennial review of the Legislature as one of the most effective lawmakers.
The Utah County Republican Central Committee will meet and pick several names from which Gov. Mike Leavitt will appoint another Republican to fill Harward's seat.