RICHMOND, Va. (CBS19 NEWS) --A local legislator is taking on a new state role.

On Monday, Attorney General Jason Miyares announced that Rob Bell has joined his team as the Deputy Attorney General for Health, Education and Social Services.

Bell is an Albemarle County attorney who held a seat in the Virginia House of Delegates for two decades.

He announced in February that he would not be seeking re-election to the House and formally resigned from the General Assembly.

According to a release, Bell has taken on his new duties as of Monday.

“I have known Rob from our work together in the General Assembly, especially on the Courts of Justice Committee. I have a deep respect for his work ethic, intellect and knowledge of Virginia laws,” said Miyares. “I have confidence that he will work vigorously for the citizens of the Commonwealth.”

“As delegate, I had the chance to learn about a wide variety of legal and policy issues while serving on the Education Committee, the Health, Welfare and Institutions Committee and the Behavioral Health Commission. I am excited to bring this knowledge into a new public service role,” said Bell. “I am honored that Attorney General Miyares has asked me to join his office.”

Bell is a graduate of the University of Virginia and the UVA School of Law.

During his time in the House, he led various efforts to address mental health, school safety, protective orders and several other issues.