Although the Shawnee Democrat would not have been term limited until 2016, Laster said it was time to refocus his attention on his family and his legal career.
Laster first came to the Senate in 2003 in a special election after Brad Henry was elected governor with two years remaining in his term. Laster was elected to his first full term in 2004 and again in 2008.
During his legislative service, Laster served on multiple committees and served in key leadership positions, including Senate Democratic Leader, Co-Floor Leader of the Senate and Judiciary chair.