Assembly leader hospitalized, undergoing tests

Evans, 61, has been absent since Tuesday. On Thursday, her office issued a statement that the surgery was "to determine the cause of health problems she has been having for the past few weeks."

Assembly leaders said Evans is keeping in touch by telephone with what is happening as the session winds toward its conclusion at the end of the month.

Evans is the highest-ranking woman in the Assembly and the third in line in Democratic leadership.

Her absence comes at a crucial time, as legislative budget panels are trying to resolve differences on education spending and social service programs. She has played a lead role in those areas for the Democrats against Republican Gov. Kenny Guinn and the GOP-controlled Senate.

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