State Rep. Denny Coffman told his colleagues in a letter today that he is resigning, effective Dec. 20, due to family reasons.

The third-term Democrat represents the west side of the Big Island.

Coffman said it has been an honor and a privilege to serve the people of Hawaii, but he must move to the mainland to help his daughter battle cancer.

“While I love Hawaii with all my heart, my love for family must trump my legislative plans,” he said.

Check out Civil Beat later for the full story.

— Nathan Eagle