Rep. Marty Walz is leaving her seat in the State House in February to take over the Massachusetts chapter of Planned Parenthood, the organization announced Wednesday. 

Walz, a Democrat who represents the 8th Suffolk District (which includes Beacon Hill and Back Bay), has served since 2005. Most recently, she was the assistant vice chair of the House Ways and Means Committee.

“While I will miss serving in the House of Representatives, I could not pass up this opportunity. The debates heard during the passage of the Affordable Care Act and throughout last year’s elections make it clear that we must never take for granted a woman’s right to make personal medical decisions.  I look forward to protecting that right and ensuring that all women have the health care they need and deserve," Walz said in a Planned Parenthood press release.

The Planned Parenthood board voted Tuesday night to approve the hiring of Walz. In addition to being the group's president and CEO, Walz will become the president of the Planned Parenthood Advocacy Fund of Massachusetts.

“Her roles as a legislator, lawyer and human resources executive have prepared her well to take on the role of PPLM’s chief executive officer," Dr. Roberta Herman, Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts board member, said. 

Walz did not return Patch phone calls Wednesday seeking comment about leaving or about how she'll be replaced on Beacon Hill. 

MaryLee Halpin, the executive director of the Beacon Hill Civic Association, said that Walz has done a "fabulous job," and that the association is "thrilled for her to have such a wonderful opportunity."