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Major topics in the 2012 state legislative sessions
This page is a collection of issues and themes in the 2012 state legislative sessions.
There are 46 states that will convene regular sessions in 2012. Montana, Nevada, North Dakota and Texas will not hold regular sessions.
This is a list of session guidelines for all 50 state legislatures:Alabama State Legislature
According to State Senator Slade Blackwell (R), there are several topics that will be major issues in the 2012 session.[1]
- Prison overcrowding: Alabama's prison system is 193 percent overcrowded, which is the highest in the nation. Blackwell said the current system must be changed.[1]
- Charter schools: Alabama is one of a handful of states that do not allow charter schools. Blackwell said he would like to change that.[1]
- Economic development and jobs: One early bill that was prefiled would streamline Alabama's tax assessment process. The bill would abolish one division within the Department of Revenue and create a new commission -- the Alabama Tax Appeals Commission.[2]
Alaska State Legislature
Legislators will be taking up Governor Sean Parnell's (R) suggestion to decrease the oil tax in order to increase economic growth. They are also expected to consider a ban on texting while driving, education funding, the state's unfunded pension liability, and whether to extend the legislative session from 90 to 120 days.[3]
Arizona State Legislature
Lawmakers will address a budget surplus estimated to be between $416-650 million. Republican leaders are expected to consider legislation on topics including immigration, job creation, allowing guns in more places, restricting abortions, and promoting charter and private schools.[4]
Arkansas General Assembly
The main issue taken up by legislators will be Governor Mike Beebe's (D) $4.7 billion budget, which includes increases in Medicaid and education funding. Other issues include repealing a tax break for truckers and toughening sentencing guidelines for sex offenders.[5]
California State Legislature
Legislators will be looking for ways to close a $12 billion budget deficit while dealing with issues including changes to public employee pensions and deciding whether the state should regulate healthcare insurance rates.[6]
Colorado General Assembly
Republicans and Democrats have both stressed that job creation and improving the economy are at the top of their agendas. Meanwhile, they will have to deal with an estimated $500 million budget deficit. Additional issues include fracking rules for oil and gas drilling and addressing a voter-approved constitutional amendment giving tax breaks to seniors that includes a provision allowing the legislature to suspend it.[7]
Connecticut General Assembly
Legislators will mainly focus on the $20 billion state budget. In addition, they will also consider overhauling early childhood public education, ending the ban on Sunday alcohol sales, increasing the minimum wage, allowing same-day voter registration and the use of red-light cameras.[8]
Delaware General Assembly
Legislators are expected to focus more on economic rather than social issues this session, including reforms to Medicaid and addressing the budget deficit.[9]
Florida State Legislature
Lawmakers will have to address a $2 billion budget shortfall as well as complete new legislative and congressional district maps.[10]
Georgia General Assembly
Legislators expect to overhaul the state tax code, cut state government and seek economic incentives that would lead to job growth.[11]
Hawaii State Legislature
The legislature is expected to focus on job creation, creating a sustainable economy, sustainable and renewable energy, improving the state's information technology infrastructure, and education funding.[12]
Idaho State Legislature
Legislators are considering setting up a state-based health care exchange as required under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Conservative legislators opposed to the law are seeking to set up a public-private ownership as a compromise, rather that risking the federal government setting up one on the state's behalf. The budget and public education reform will also be major issues.[13]
Illinois General Assembly
Governor Pat Quinn (D) and all four legislative leaders say reforming the state's public employee pension system will be a top priority in 2012. Legislators are also expected to address gambling expansion.[14]
Indiana General Assembly
Main issues include "Right-to-work" legislation, a statewide smoking ban, a tax raise to finance a mass transit system, and eliminating the state's inheritance tax.[15] The issue at the heart of the matter is "right-to-work" legislation that Republicans have long said would be their top priority in 2012. The legislation seeks to ban companies and unions from negotiating a contract that requires non-union members to pay union dues. Republicans argue the move would bring jobs to the state while Democrats say it will lead to lower wages.[16]
Iowa General Assembly
The main issues will be a property tax relief package, along with education and mental health reform. Legislators are also expected to consider extending terms for representatives from two to four years.[17]
Kansas State Legislature
Alongside the budget, legislators considered reforming the school financing formula and expanding Medicaid's managed care system.[18]
Kentucky General Assembly
The legislature will deal with proposals about legalizing casino-style gambling, redraw legislative districts and deal with a budget gap of nearly $1 billion.[19]Louisiana State Legislature
Maine State Legislature
Lawmakers are facing a $221 million budget deficit. They are also looking to restructure the state Medicaid system, reduce energy costs and improve charter schools.[20]
Maryland General Assembly
Governor Martin O'Malley (D) has said 2012 is the year for a massive public works program to create jobs. Legislators are looking to boost revenue through increases in gas and sewer taxes and are considering expanding gambling in the state. Democrats are also looking to legalize same-sex marriage.[21]
Massachusetts General Court
Leading the agenda is a crackdown on abuses at special education collaboratives in the state. Other issues include controlling health costs and a sentencing bill that would bar parole for prisoners convicted of more than two violent crimes.[22]
Michigan State Legislature
For the first time in years, legislators are anticipating an estimated $1 billion surplus. They are expected to consider proposals regarding autism, concealed weapons, elder abuse, mining and ending the personal property tax. Controversial "right-to-work" legislation may also be on the table.[23]
Minnesota State Legislature
Republicans and Democrats are both hopeful that the 2012 session will be a fresh start after last year's budget showdown that led to a three-week government shutdown. Major issues include job creation, economic development and whether to build a new stadium for the Minnesota Vikings.[24]
Mississippi State Legislature
Republicans control the legislature and governorship for the first time since Reconstruction. They will have to deal with a spending gap of nearly $1 billion and are expected to consider cuts to education, public health, public safety, and nursing homes for veterans. New state legislative maps will also be on the agenda.[25]
Missouri General Assembly
The budget is expected to be the main focus of the session as the state faces a $500 million spending gap. The agenda also includes economic development, Workers Compensation reforms, and overhauling public school funding.[26]
Montana State Legislature
Nebraska State Senate (Unicameral)
At the top of the list for the legislature is reforming the state's child welfare system, while Governor Dave Heineman said his priorities will be job creation and maintaining fiscal discipline.[27]
Nevada State Legislature
New Hampshire General Court
Major issues on the agenda include economic development, job creation, same-sex marriage, and gambling.[28]
New Jersey State Legislature
Democratic legislative leaders are expected to put legalization of same-sex marriage and an increase in the minimum wage at the top of their agenda, both of which are opposed by Republican Governor Chris Christie.[29]
The legislature passed a gay marriage bill in February, only to see it vetoed the next day by Gov. Christie.[30]
New Mexico State Legislature
In their 30-day session the legislature considered drivers licenses for illegal immigrants, voter identification, business income tax, ethics reform, and defining homeowner rights in foreclosure proceedings.[31]
Gov. Susana Martinez (R) watched as the state legislature ended its session by rejecting a bill that would have repealed the law allowing drivers licenses to be issued to people without Social Security numbers. It was the third time she has tried to undo the law. The bill was initially passed by the House but defeated in the Senate. The Senate instead passed a measure shortening how long the licenses are valid and imposing harsher penalties on those committing fraud.[32]
New York State Legislature
Redistricting was a divisive issue in 2011 and has to be dealt with in this session. Other issues include addressing a $3.5 billion budget gap and a proposal to ban hydrofracking.[33]
North Carolina General Assembly
North Dakota Legislative Assembly
Ohio General Assembly
Reforms to the state's public pension system will be on top of the agenda. Additionally, the legislature may consider a revamp of the state's school funding formula as well as major reforms to the Bureau of Workers' Compensation and changes in energy policy.[34]
Oklahoma State Legislature
The main issue for 2012 is expected to be an overhaul of the state's tax code, which includes cutting the individual income tax. Republican legislative leaders and Governor Mary Fallin contend cutting the tax would make the state more business friendly and attract more companies to the state.[35]
Oregon State Legislature
In their month-long 2012 session, the legislature is expected to mostly deal with issues from the previous session which includes proposals from Governor John Kitzhaber (D) for implementing federal healthcare reforms, requiring an annual "achievement compact" for school districts, and increasing funding for children and families. They will also address the state budget, job growth and economic development regulation of state timber harvest, foreclosure assistance, and tax reform.[36]
Pennsylvania General Assembly
Fiscal issues will headline the agenda, including a $750 million budget shortfall. Other issues include fees for natural gas drilling and regulations for small games of chance.[37]
Rhode Island General Assembly
The legislature will have to address a $120 million budget deficit. Legislators want to cut spending to close the gap while Governor Lincoln Chafee (I) is considering a tax raise. Major issues also include reducing municipal pension costs and reducing regulations to spur economic growth.[38]
South Carolina State Legislature
Legislators will be addressing a budget surplus of $900 million. Major agenda issues include tax reform, job security measures, reforming the state retirement system, and creating a new school funding formula.[39]
South Dakota State Legislature
Legislators will take up Governor Dennis Daugaard's proposals of bonuses for state employees, additional aid to schools and Medicare agencies, and work force development initiatives. Additionally, they will consider a texting-while-driving ban, reforming the school funding formula, and increased penalties for speeding.[40]
Tennessee General Assembly
Republican legislators began the session by passing new congressional and state legislative maps, but redistricting may remain a major issue as Democrats have threatened a lawsuit over the new districts. Republican leaders say the session will focus on job creation and eliminating policies and regulations that restrict businesses, including the inheritance tax, and reforming unemployment insurance.[41]
Texas State Legislature
Utah State Legislature
Major topics include a projected $13 billion budget, improving technology for students, illegal immigration, and infrastructure improvements.[42]
Vermont State Legislature
The two main issues facing the legislature are dealing with an estimated $75 million budget gap and finding ways to pay for recovery from Tropical Storm Irene.[43]
Virginia General Assembly
With the Senate tied 20-20, control of the chamber will be a major issue. Republicans, using the tie-breaking vote of Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling, claim control of the chamber, but Democrats are challenging in court. The General Assembly will take up Governor Bob McDonnell's proposed $85 billion budget, job creation, economic development, and a proposal to end the 30-year-old moratorium on uranium mining.[44]
Washington State Legislature
Heading into the session the state faces a $1.5 billion budget gap. Additionally, Governor Chris Gregoire is pushing for a half-cent sales tax, while the legislature is considering a gas-tax increase to pay for roads and transportation related needs.[45]
The legislature passed a bill allowing gay and lesbian couples to marry. Gov. Gregoire signed it into law in February but opponents immediately filed a Referendum to try and put the law on hold.[46]
West Virginia State Legislature
Governor Earl Ray Tomblin's (D) agenda for 2012 includes job creation, tying teacher evaluations to student performance, increasing mine safety, and combating substance abuse.[47] Additionally, the Legislature is expected to address overcrowded prisons, Marcellus Shale development, and health care.[48]
Wisconsin State Legislature
With potential recalls of Governor Scott Walker (R), Lieutenant Governor Rebecca Kleefisch (R) and four Republican state senators, debate on major legislation is expected to be limited.[49] Republican leaders say they are focused on passing bills on only four main issues - clearing the way for on ore mine in northern Wisconsin, easing laws regarding development on wetlands, environmental regulation, and creating a venture capital fund to help start-up businesses.[50]
Wyoming State Legislature
With projections estimating a $115 million decrease in revenue, a number of legislators are focused on either cutting spending or at least preventing the budget from increasing. Governor Matt Mead (R) has called for $17 million in spending cuts. Other issues include redistricting, creating a statewide school support and evaluation system, increasing motor vehicle fees and raising the state speed limit 80 mph.[51]
See also
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 Shelby County Reporter "Issues for legislative session," January 31, 2012
- ↑ Birmingham Business Journal "Bill would streamline Alabama tax assessment process," January 31, 2012
- ↑ Anchorage Daily News, "Lingering issues to test Legislature," January 16, 2012
- ↑ Arizona Republic, "Arizona Legislators gear up for new session," January 7, 2012
- ↑ Arkansas News, "Fiscal session begins Monday with leaders watching calendar," February 12, 2012
- ↑ Sacramento Bee, "California Legislature returns to face more budget woes, new election rules," January 3, 2012
- ↑ Denver Post, "Colorado legislature faces key issues," January 8, 2012
- ↑ Hartford Courant, "Governor Malloy Delivers State Of The State Address," February 8, 2012
- ↑ Delaware First Media, "Legislators begin to form 2012 agenda," January 8, 2012
- ↑ Miami Herald, "State lawmakers open session facing $2 billion budget shortfall," January 8, 2012
- ↑ Atlanta Journal-Constitution, "Legislature could get off to a fast start," January 9, 2012
- ↑ Hawaii Reporter, "Hawaii State Senate Majority Caucus Sets its Priorities for the 2012 Legislative Session," January 17, 2012
- ↑ Times News Magic Valley, "See What the Idaho Legislature's Toughest Issues Are This Session," January 9, 2012
- ↑ Illinois Issues, "Push for pension changes grows, but players are far from agreement," January 12, 2012
- ↑ Indianapolis Star, "Lawmakers face rematch with 'thousand-pound gorilla'," January 3, 2012
- ↑ Indianapolis Star, "Rare joint hearing accelerates 'right to work' bill," January 6, 2012
- ↑ Sioux City Journal, "Legislators predict 'different' 2012 session," January 8, 2012
- ↑ Topeka Capital Journal, "Legislative session to start Monday," January 8, 2012
- ↑ Courier-Journal, "Lawmakers kick off legislative session Tuesday," January 2, 2012
- ↑ Bangor Daily News, "Maine lawmakers return Wednesday for 2012 session," January 3, 2012
- ↑ Baltimore Sun, "So much to do: Annapolis Democrats push ambitious agenda," January 8, 2012
- ↑ Washington Examiner, "Mass. lawmakers to weigh bill on special ed groups," January 4, 2012
- ↑ Detroit News, "Michigan Legislature sets priorities in new session," January 12, 2012
- ↑ Star Tribune, "New session opens with cautious hopes for peace," January 21, 2012
- ↑ Clarion Ledger, "State budget decisions all up to GOP," January 2, 2012
- ↑ St. Louis Beacon, "Missouri legislature opens, with last session's issues at top of agenda," January 4, 2012
- ↑ Lincoln Journal Star, "As session begins, child welfare reform a priority," January 3, 2012
- ↑ Concord Monitor, "House GOP: Jobs the focus," January 4, 2012
- ↑ NJ.com, "Democratic legislators to put Christie in tight spot with gay marriage, minimum wage," January 15, 2012
- ↑ FOX News, "Christie follows through on promise to veto gay marriage bill," February 18, 2012
- ↑ Santa Fe New Mexican, "Election-year tension and redrawn districts set stage for political dramas at the Capitol," January 15, 2012
- ↑ Latin American Herald Tribune, "Undocumented New Mexicans Can Still Get Driver’s Licenses," February 19, 2012
- ↑ Poughkeepsie Journal, "Divisive issues to test Cuomo's popularity in 2nd year," January 9, 2012
- ↑ Zanesville Times Recorder, "12 key issues for Ohio in 2012," Jenner first 2012
- ↑ NewsOn6, "Tax Plans Likely To Be Focus Of 2012 Oklahoma Legislative Session," February 5, 2012
- ↑ Oregon Live, "Oregon lawmakers hope for quick, civil session that tackles budget, health care and schools," January 29, 2012
- ↑ Herald-Mail, "New legislative session brings old challenges in Pa.," January 4, 2012
- ↑ Boston.com, "Issues to watch in 2012 RI session," January 2, 2012
- ↑ The State, "Legislative key issues," January 8, 2012
- ↑ Argus Leader, "S.D. Legislature to visit array of old issues with fresh optimism," January 8, 2012
- ↑ The Tennessean, "TN lawmakers gear up for fast session, re-election," January 8, 2012
- ↑ Salt Lake Tribune, "Top issues to watch in the upcoming Utah Legislature," January 21, 2012
- ↑ Boston.com, "Vt. lawmakers to tackle Irene recovery, budget," January 2, 2012
- ↑ Richmond Times Dispatch, "Fight to control Senate highlights start of session," January 11, 2012
- ↑ The Olympian, "A big factor in state legislative session: Fall, spring elections," January 7, 2012
- ↑ New York Times, "Washington Governor Signs Gay Marriage Bill," February 13, 2012
- ↑ State Journal, "Tomblin focuses on job creation in WV State of the State address," January 11, 2012
- ↑ The Intelligencer, "New Prison an Issue as Lawmakers Return," January 12, 2012
- ↑ Governor Journal, "Recalls Make for Quiet Session," January 16, 2012
- ↑ Appleton Post Crescent, "Wisconsin legislative agenda influenced by negative effects of recalls," January 16, 2012
- ↑ Wyoming Tribune Eagle, "State may cracked down on spending," February 12, 2012
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