Legislators recall former assemblyman

Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2001 | 10:30 a.m.

SUN CAPITAL BUREAU

CARSON CITY -- The Nevada Legislature Monday adjourned in memory of former Assemblyman Gene Evans, who authored what is believed to be the state's first open meeting law.

Evans, who worked in public relations in Reno, died last Thursday at the age of 80.

A former newspaper man from Elko, Evans served in the 1957, 1959 and 1960 sessions. In 1960, the last regular annual session of the Legislature, he introduced Assembly Bill 1, which required government boards and commissions to conduct their business in the open.

In 1957 he also introduced and gained passage of a bill to tighten the law prohibiting government employees from receiving personal profit for their actions.

Surviving are his widow, Binney, and son, Eugene Thomas, both of Reno, and a grandson.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Cremation is under the direction of Walton Funeral Home with internment at Mountain View Cemetery.

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