Former President of the National Rifle Association (NRA) and longtime pro-gun lobbyist Marion Hammer is stepping down from her position after more than four decades of service to the gun rights advocacy group.

“Marion Hammer’s name has become synonymous with the Second Amendment and with the NRA. She is a dynamic and legendary advocate who has led the way with many laws that started in Florida and then served as a blueprint across the country. For more than 40 years, I have been in the trenches with Marion for landmark fights, including Right-to-Carry, Castle Doctrine and other life-saving, pro-hunting and pro-Second Amendment laws. I am grateful that Marion will stay on as an advisor to the Association – so our members can continue to benefit from her expertise and defense of their freedoms,” said Wayne LaPierre, executive vice president and CEO of the NRA.

Hammer, who is also a certified firearms instructor, has long been considered as one of the state’s most influential lobbyists. She served as president of the NRA from 1995 to 1998 and has led the Unified Sportsmen of Florida, the state’s NRA affiliate, since 1976. She has been credited with influencing many of Florida’s gun laws, including the state’s “stand your ground” law and concealed carry law.

Among a wide range of accomplishments, Hammer says her proudest achievement was the launch of the Eddie Eagle Gun Safe program that was created during her presidency of the NRA.

She was also inducted into the Florida Women’s Hall of Fame in 2005.

“It has been an honor to serve NRA members as state lobbyist in Florida. Above all, it’s been my privilege to serve and to fight alongside great warriors for our cause like Wayne, without whom many of our nation’s self-defense laws would not have been possible.  When I was first hired in September 1978, I was given one mission – ‘Do what you need to do, but do not let Florida become another California.’ For 44 years, I am proud to say that I faithfully delivered on that assignment with the help of our great NRA members,” said Hammer.

Hammer’s influence in the political arena stretches beyond advocating for pro-gun policies. She has also served as a mentor to many in the process, including Senate President Wilton Simpson who touted Hammer’s friendship and role safeguarding the Second Amendment in Florida.

“Marion Hammer has dedicated her life to safeguarding the Second Amendment rights of law abiding Floridians and promoting responsible gun ownership. Standing in the breach against left-wing extremists who want to take our guns, Marion has successfully advocated for critical self-defense and firearm safety programs and requirements that educate families about the responsibilities associated with owning a firearm,” Simpson said on Twitter.

“Marion is a friend and mentor to so many, and I know she will continue to use her platform to support the rights of law-abiding Florida gun owners to protect and defend their families,” he continued.

In a statement, NRA added that Hammer will continue to serve as an advisor to the NRA, assisting with Second Amendment advocacy in the Sunshine State and beyond.