The office of Hawaii state Sen. Sam Slom released a statement Wednesday saying that the Republican lawmaker has checked himself into a hospital for “routine testing and treatment.”

The checkup follows Slom’s hospitalization last month for a “stubborn infection.”

“It’s unfortunate that this follow-up occurs during such a critical time,” Slom said in a statement Tuesday night.  “Though I’m much happier giving orders than getting them, these were the doctor’s orders and I was told that voting NO was not an option.”

Slom’s staff says he continues “to collaborate daily” with his staff on all legislative activities.

He expects to return to work next week.

During Slom’s absence, the word “no” will no doubt be uttered less frequently in the Senate chamber, which is controlled by Democrats.