Nevada Lawmaker Says He'll Take 3-Week Leave | News

CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP) -- Troubled Nevada Assemblyman Steven Brooks is telling colleagues that he's taking a three-week leave but he has yet sign official papers required for the leave.

Brooks' announcement Thursday on the floor the Legislature comes with the Assembly forming a panel to investigate whether the North Las Vegas Democrat is fit to serve his elected post.

The select committee will hold hearings and recommend what action, if any, should be taken. It could recommend expulsion.

The developments come a day after Brooks was ousted from the Assembly Democratic caucus.

He's been under scrutiny since his arrest Jan. 19 for allegedly threatening Assembly Speaker Marilyn Kirkpatrick.

Brooks was hospitalized a week later for a psychiatric evaluation.

He was sworn in Monday with other legislators.

Brooks backed out of a previous agreement with lawmakers to take medical leave, saying he was ready to serve.