NM lawmaker OK after being taken to hospital

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A veteran state legislator says he expects to return to the Legislature for its closing day after being hospitalized because he passed out in his Capitol office.

Democratic Rep. Luciano "Lucky" Varela of Santa Fe issued a statement Friday describing it as a "minor episode" and saying he felt much better.

Varela was unconscious for about 20 seconds in his office and paramedics were called.

According to a statement by Varela's family, doctors think Varela may have had a reaction to blood pressure and allergy medications.

Varela has served in the House since 1987, and only four other current House members have been in office longer. The 78-year-old Varela is retired and a former state controller.

Varela expects to return to the Legislature on Saturday for its adjournment.