Sen. Smith to miss start of legislature to seek ‘expert medical attention’

Nevada Sen. Debbie Smith said Sunday she is going out of state to seek “expert medical attention” and would miss the start of the Nevada Legislature, which opens on Monday.

Smith, D-Sparks, didn’t reveal any details about her health, but asked for privacy while she determines how serious her medical condition is.

“Following preliminary test results, my family and I have decided to seek out of state expert medical attention to better understand my current medical situation,” Smith said in a statement.

“Although I am disappointed I will not be in attendance at the beginning of the 2015 legislative session, I am feeling fine and I am grateful for the outpouring of love and support I have received from my colleagues, friends and constituents.”

Smith, 59, didn’t say where she was going out of state or how long she might be absent.

“I will provide more information when I know more about my condition,” Smith said. “In the meantime, I consider this a private family matter and I would request and appreciate that we be given the privacy needed at this time.”

Smith was elected to the state Senate in 2012 after serving for about a dozen years in the Assembly.