JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) – A Missouri lawmaker is resigning to avoid a new waiting period for legislators to become lobbyists.

Hartville Republican Rep. Tony Dugger stepped down Friday. In an interview with The Associated Press, he cited a law set to take effect Aug. 28 that will require lawmakers to wait six months after their terms end before becoming lobbyists.

Dugger said he doesn’t have a lobbying job lined up but wants to keep his options open.

Dugger’s term was set to end in January. By leaving early, he can immediately register as a lobbyist and could return as soon as September to try to sway his former colleagues.

Dugger was among 18 House members to vote against the new law as written.