State legislative sessions
Alabama State Legislature
Section 48 of Article IV of the Alabama Constitution initially set the rules for the timing and length of the Legislature's sessions. However, these rules have been changed by state statute.
The Alabama Legislature convenes in regular annual sessions on the first Tuesday in February, except during the first year of the four-year term, when the session begins on the first Tuesday in March. In the last year of a four-year term, the legislative session begins on the second Tuesday in January. The length of the regular session is limited to 30 meeting days within a period of 105 calendar days. There are usually two meeting or "legislative" days per week, with other days devoted to committee meetings.
The Governor of Alabama can call, by proclamation, special sessions of the Alabama legislature. The governor must list the subjects on which legislation will be debated upon. These sessions are limited to 12 legislative days within a 30 calendar day span. In a regular session, bills may be enacted on any subject. In a special session, legislation must be enacted only on those subjects which the governor announces on their proclamation or "call." Anything not in the "call" requires a two-thirds vote of each house to be enacted.[1]
Bills can be prefiled before sessions, starting at the end of the previous session and ending at the beginning of the session for which they are being filed. The exception to this is for sessions beginning in March every 4 years. [2]
The Alabama Legislature has a constitutional session length limit of 105 calendar days.
Alaska State Legislature
Section 8 of Article II of the Alaska Constitution contains provisions relating to the timing and length of sessions. However, the provisions related to the convening date of the Legislature have been changed by law, and the provisions limiting the length of legislative sessions have been changed by the Alaska 90-Day Legislative Session Amendment. This amendment was passed in a 2006 ballot initiative, and it limits the regular sessions of the Legislature to ninety days.
Section 9 of Article II allows for special sessions to be called by the Governor of Alaska or by a two-thirds vote of the legislators. Special sessions are limited to 30 days.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature was in session from January 15 to April 14.
Major issues
Major issues during the 2013 legislative session included oil tax reform, state agency performance reviews and a budget for fiscal year 2014.[3][4]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in regular session from January 17 to April 15. It was in special session from April 15 to April 30.[5]
Major issues
Legislators took up Governor Sean Parnell's (R) suggestion to decrease the oil tax in order to increase economic growth. They also considered 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.[6]
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the Legislature was in session from January 18 to April 17. Lawmakers remained in Juneau from April 18 to May 14 to resolve ongoing disagreements over the state's operating budget; the final compromise included money for a new in-state natural gas pipeline and a $20 million payout to the state's schools.[7]
A second special session was held from June 27 to 28 to discuss reauthorization of the state's Coastal Management Program, which was set to expire June 30. Measures to reauthorize the program failed during the regular session. [8] The program ended on schedule after the House failed to pass a Senate proposal to save it.[9]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the Legislature was in session from January 19th to April 18th.
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Alaska was given a grade of B in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[10]
Arizona State Legislature
Article IV of the Arizona Constitution establishes when the Legislature is to be in session. Section 3 of the Second Part of the Article contains the relevant provisions. It states that sessions are to convene on the second Monday of January of each year.
Section 3 also allows the Governor of Arizona to call special sessions of the Legislature.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 14 through April 19 (estimated).
Major issues
Losing super-majorities in the House and Senate, Republicans no longer wield the same level of power and compromises may be more likely. Gov. Jan Brewer (R) said her legislative priorities include education standards and simplifying the state's transaction privilege tax.[11]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in regular session from January 10 through May 3.[12]
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the Legislature was in regular session from January 10 through April 20. [13] Three special sessions were called in Arizona for 2011. The first special session was convened on January 19, addressing requests for a federal Medicaid exemption. A second special session was called by Governor Jan Brewer on February 14, 2011. The special session will run in tandem with the regular session, and was convened to consider business tax cuts as part of an economic development package proposed to add jobs by encouraging businesses to expand and relocate in Arizona. [14] The third special session was convened on June 10 to extend unemployment benefits. The session lasted two days, and ended on June 13 without a vote on Governor Brewer's proposal. Brewer refuses to call another special session until lawmakers support the unemployment extension. [15]
Session highlights
In the 2011 session, Arizona fixed its $1.5 billion shortfall by eliminating $1.1 billion in spending. There were no new taxes instated to help with the reductions, only tax cuts. The legislature sliced the corporate income tax rate from 6.9 percent to 4.9 percent. [16]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the Legislature was in regular session from January 11th to April 29th. The Legislature was convened in special session from February 1st-11th.
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Arizona was given a grade of C in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[17]
Arkansas General Assembly
Article V of the Arkansas Constitution establishes when the General Assembly is to convene. Section 5 of Article V establishes the beginning date for regular sessions, but this date has been changed by law (as Section 5 allows). Under the law, the Arkansas legislature convenes its regular session on the second Monday in January of every odd numbered year. The fiscal session is convened on the second Monday in February of every even numbered year. [18]
Section 17 of Article V limits the length of sessions to sixty days, unless extended by a two-thirds vote of each legislative house.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature was in session from January 14 through May 17.
Major issues
Major issues during the 2013 legislative session included an agreement on expanding the Medicaid program by providing private insurance for low-income residents, a two percent increase in per-student funding for public schools and a bill that requires voters to show photo identification at the polls.[19] During the first budget negotiations of the year, the Joint Budget Committee rejected a pay increase for elected officials.[20]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the General Assembly was in session from February 13 to March 13.
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the General Assembly was in session from January 10 to April 27.
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the General Assembly convened for its Fiscal Session, meeting from February 8th to March 4th.
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Arkansas was given a grade of A in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[21]
California State Legislature
Article IV of the California Constitution establishes when the Legislature is to be in session. Section 3 of Article IV states that the Legislature is to convene in regular session on the first Monday of December in each even-numbered year to organize. The Legislature must adjourn by November 30th of the following even-numbered year.
Section 3 also provides the Governor of California the power to call special sessions of the Legislature.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature is in session from December 3, 2012 to November 30, 2013.
Major issues
With a newly-gained super-majority (which might not last long), Democrats have to decide how to use their new powers, among which is the ability to pass tax increases without any Republican support. Major issues for the session include property taxes for education and tax breaks for students.[22]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from January 4 to August 31.
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the Legislature will be in session from January 3- September 9, 2011. The California Legislature was convened in an extraordinary session to act upon legislation that addresses the fiscal emergency proclaimed by Governor Jerry Brown on January 20, 2011. [23]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the Legislature began its regular session on January 12th, and was scheduled to adjourn on August 31st. Additionally, the legislature adjourned one special session on January 11th of this year, had one ongoing special session that convened in October of 2009, and had another ongoing special session that convened on January 8th, 2010.[24]
On July 28th, 2010 Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger issued a declaration of fiscal emergency[25][26] as allowed under California's Constitution as approved in 2004 under proposition 58. Upon issuance of a declaration of fiscal emergency, the legislature must immediately reconvene and may not adjourn until after the fiscal situation is resolved.
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. California was given a grade of D in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[27]
Colorado General Assembly
Article V of the Colorado Constitution establishes when the General Assembly is to be in session. Section 7 of Article V states that the Assembly is to convene its regular session no later than the second Wednesday of January of each year. Regular sessions are not to exceed one hundred twenty calendar days.
Section 7 also states that the Governor of Colorado can convene special sessions of the General Assembly. Special sessions can also be convened by a two-thirds vote of the members of both legislative houses.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature was in session from January 9 through May 8.
Major issues
Major issues during the 2013 legislative session included gun control, immigration reform, election reform and the enactment of laws to regulate and tax legal marijuana.[28]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the General Assembly was in session from January 11 to May 9. A special session began May 14.[29]
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the General Assembly was in session from January 12 through May 11.
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the General Assembly was in session from January 13th to May 12th.
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Colorado was given a grade of C in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[30]
Connecticut General Assembly
Article III of the Connecticut Constitution establishes when the Legislature is to be in session. Section 2 of Article III states that, in odd-numbered years, the Legislature shall convene its regular session on the Wednesday after the first Monday in January. Section 2 requires regular sessions in odd-numbered years to adjourn by the Wednesday after the first Monday in June.
The Constitution does not establish when the Legislature is supposed to meet in even-numbered years, so these dates are established by law. In even-numbered years, the Legislature convenes on the Wednesday following the first Monday in February, pending the decision of the Legislature, and it must adjourn by the Wednesday after the first Monday in May.[31]
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature was in session from January 9 through June 5.
Major issues
Major issues during the 2013 legislative session included restrictions on gun ownership, an increase to the minimum wage, labels on genetically modified foods, and the ability for illegal immigrants to apply for driver's licenses.[32]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the General Assembly was in session from February 8 to May 9.
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the General Assembly was in session from January 5 through June 8. Connecticut Governor Dan Malloy convened both houses in a special session to address budget cuts on June 30. [33]
Session highlights
Tax increases
During the 2011 legislative session, the legislature passed $1.5 billion worth of tax increases strongly pushed by Governor Dan Malloy to help close a budget gap estimated at $3.3 billion. Individual and corporate income tax rates rose, along with inheritance, alcohol, cigarette and gasoline levies. Additionally, the retail sales tax rate from 6% to 6.35%. The Republican legislative minority strongly criticized Malloy and Democratic leaders, calling their plan a "massive and unnecessary tax hike."[34]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the Legislature was in session from February 3rd to May 5th.
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Connecticut was given a grade of A in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[35]
Delaware General Assembly
Article II of the Delaware Constitution establishes when the General Assembly is to be in session. Section 4 of Article II states that the General Assembly is to convene on the second Tuesday of January of each calendar year, and it is not to extend beyond the last day of June.
Section 4 also allows the General Assembly to be convened into special session by the Governor of Delaware or by the mutual call of the presiding officers of both Houses.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 8 through June 30.
Major issues
Major issues for the 147th legislative session include gun control, gay marriage, and budgetary problems.[36]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the General Assembly was in session from January 10 through June 30.
Major issues
Legislators focused more on economic rather than social issues this session, including reforms to Medicaid and addressing the budget deficit.[37]
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the General Assembly was in session from January 11 through June 30.
Session highlights
State employee benefit cuts
Governor Jack Markell's plan to cut public employee pension and health benefits received overwhelming support from officials within his administration, legislators and even public employee union officials. Markell's proposal, which became law on May 2, 2011, requires new state employees to pay 5% of their salary after the first $6,000 towards their pension, rather than 3%. It also eliminates the use of overtime when calculating pensions and the "double state share" health care benefit. According to the governor's office, the plan will save Delaware taxpayers $130 million over the next five years and $480 million over the next fifteen.[38][39]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the General Assembly was in session from January 12th to June 30th.
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Delaware was given a grade of C in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[40]
Florida State Legislature
Article III of the Florida Constitution establishes when the Legislature is to be in session. Section 3 of Article III states that the regular session of the Legislature is to convene on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in March of each year. Regular sessions of the Legislature are not to exceed sixty days, unless extended by a three-fifths vote of each house.
Section 3 also allows for the convening of special sessions, either by the proclamation of the Governor of Florida or as otherwise provided by law.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature was in session from March 5 to May 3.
Issues
Major issues during the 2013 legislative session included ethics and election reforms, gambling laws, Medicaid, sales tax and unmanned drone use by law enforcement.[41][42]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from January 10 through March 9.
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the Legislature was in session from March 8 through May 6.
Session highlights
In 2011, the legislature reduced government spending and avoided raising taxes. Spending will be reduced by $1 billion from last year, and $4 billion less than in 2006. Florida also removed 14,000 businesses from corporate tax income rolls. Areas that spending was cut include education and social programs. The legislature removed funding from a veteran's homeless support group, reduced payments to social workers by 15 percent, and will spend $2.5 billion less on education than last year. [43]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the Legislature was in session from March 2nd to April 30th.
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Florida was given a grade of C in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[44]
Georgia General Assembly
Section 4 of Article III of the Georgia Constitution establishes when the General Assembly is to meet in regular session. The General Assembly must convene annually by the second Monday in January, and its sessions can last for only forty legislative days.[45] Prefiling begins November 15 and runs until the start of the session.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature was in session from January 14 through March 28.
Major issues
Major issues during the 2013 legislative session included juvenile-justice reform, regulation of coin-operated video games, ethics reform and a budget that was previously facing a $700 million deficit.[46]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the General Assembly was in regular session from January 9 through March 29.
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the General Assembly was in regular session from January 10 through April 14. [47] Governor Nathan Deal called the legislature into special session for August 15 to consider congressional and legislative redistricting plans based on the 2010 census. [48]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the General Assembly was in session from January 11th to April 29th.
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Georgia was given a grade of A in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[49]
Hawaii State Legislature
Article III of the Hawaii Constitution establishes when the Legislature is to be in session. Section 10 of Article III states that the Legislature shall convene in regular session on the third Wednesday in January of every year. Regular sessions are limited to sixty legislative days, but they can be extended by fifteen days by the Governor of Hawaii or by the request of two-thirds of each legislative house. Section 10 mandates that the Legislature take a mandatory recess of at least five days during each regular session.
Section 10 also contains provisions regarding special sessions of the Legislature. Special sessions can involve both houses of the Legislature or the Senate alone. Special sessions can be convened by the Governor of Hawaii or by two-thirds of the house or houses seeking to convene. Special sessions are limited in length. They are not to last more than thirty legislative days, but they, like regular sessions, can be extended for fifteen days.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature was in session from January 16 to May 2.
Major issues
Major issues during the 2013 legislative session included revenue, hotel room tax, GET increase, education funding, and renewable energy tax credits.[50]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from January 18 to May 3.
Major issues
The legislature focused on job creation, creating a sustainable economy, sustainable and renewable energy, improving the state's information technology infrastructure, and education funding.[51]
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the Legislature was in session from January 19 through May 5.
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the Legislature was in session from January 20th to April 29th.
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Hawaii was given a grade of C in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[52]
Idaho State Legislature
Article III of the Idaho Constitution establishes when the Legislature is to be in session. Section 8 of Article III states that the Legislature will convene its regular session on the second Monday in January of each year. Section 8 also allows that starting date of the legislative session to be changed by law. However, in 2010, the Legislature convened on the second Monday in January as provided by the Constitution. Section 8 also states that the Governor of Idaho can convene special sessions of the Legislature at any time.
The Idaho Legislature normally convenes at the Idaho State Capitol in downtown Boise.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the legislature was in session from January 7 through April 4.
Major issues
Major issues during the 2013 legislative session included the creation of a state-controlled health exchange, school reform, business tax breaks and ethics rules.[53]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from January 9 through March 29.
Major issues
Legislators considered 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 sought 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 were also major issues.[54]
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the Legislature was in session from January 10 through April 7. [55]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the Legislature was in session from January 11th to March 29th.
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Idaho was given a grade of C in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[56]
Illinois General Assembly
Article IV of the Illinois Constitution establishes when the General Assembly is to be in session. Section 5 of Article IV states that the General Assembly will convene its regular session on the second Wednesday of January.
Section 5 also creates rules for the convening of special sessions. The section allows the Governor of Illinois to convene the General Assembly or the Senate alone. When the Governor calls a special session, the General Assembly can generally only deal with matters related to the purpose of the session, as stated by the Governor's proclamation of the session, but they can also deal with impeachments or confirmation of appointments. Section 5 also allows the presiding officers of both houses of the General Assembly to convene a special session through joint proclamation.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature was in session from January 9 through May 31.
Major issues
Major issues during the 2013 legislative session included regulation of horizontal hydraulic fracturing, concealed carry, same-sex marriage, and pension reform.[57][58][59][60]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the General Assembly was in regular session from January 11, meeting throughout the year.
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the General Assembly was in session from January 12-June 1. A special session was called by Governor Pat Quinn to settle disputes regarding Illinois construction projects on June 22, 2011.[61]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the General Assembly was in regular session from January 13th to May 7th.
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Illinois was given a grade of C in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[62]
Indiana General Assembly
Article 4 of the Indiana Constitution establishes when the General Assembly is to be in session. Section 9 of Article 4 states that the General Assembly will begin its regular session on the Tuesday following the second Monday in January of each year. However, Section 9 allows the starting state for the session to be changed by law. This has happened in Indiana in 2010, as the General Assembly's session convened on January 5th instead of the constitutionally designated date, which was January 12th. The session must adjourn by April 29 in odd numbered years and March 14 in even numbered years.[63]
Section 9 also gives the Governor of Indiana the power to call special sessions of the General Assembly.
Bills may be pre-filed in the Senate thirty days prior to the start of the session.[64] House filing begins on the opening day of the session.[65]
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the General Assembly will be in session from January 7 through April 29.
Major issues
As Republicans flex their new super-majority, the main topic of discussion will be a new two-year state budget. Gov. Mike Pence (R) is seeking to reduce the state's income tax.[66]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the General Assembly was in session from January 4 through March 14.
Major issues
Main issues included "Right-to-work" legislation, a statewide smoking ban, a tax raise to finance a mass transit system, and eliminating the state's inheritance tax.[67] The issue at the heart of the matter was "right-to-work" legislation that Republicans long said would be their top priority in 2012. The legislation sought to ban companies and unions from negotiating a contract that requires non-union members to pay union dues. Republicans argued the move would bring jobs to the state while Democrats said it would lead to lower wages.[68]
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the General Assembly was in session from January 5 through April 29.
Session highlights
In the 2011 session, the Indiana legislature reduced the corporate income tax from 8.5 to 6.5 percent, spread over four years. [69]
Clerical error
On June 30, the state's largest agency, the Family and Social Services Administration, was accidentally eliminated, due to a major clerical error during the drafting of legislation related to the Family and Social Services Administration. The Administration helps more than a million people access Medicaid and food stamps in Indiana.[70]
According to the AP, "Senate Bill 331 was intended to repeal a provision already in law that would have automatically eliminated (the Family and Social Services Administration) - called a sunset. The sunset language was set for June 30. The bill that repealed the sunset provision went into effect July 1, so technically, FSSA was eliminated minutes before the bill intended to save it went into effect."[70]
The mistake was noticed days after the new law went into effect, and caught many welfare recipients and legislative leaders off guard. On July 7, Governor Mitch Daniels signed an executive order on Thursday, July 7, to correct the mistake.[70]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the General Assembly was in session from January 5th to March 12th.
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Indiana was given a grade of D in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[71]
Iowa General Assembly
The Legislative Department of the Iowa Constitution establishes when the General Assembly is to be in session. Section 2 of the article states that the General Assembly is to convene its regular session on the second Monday of January of each year. The General Assembly can also be called into special session by a proclamation of the Governor of Iowa or by a written request of two-thirds of both houses of the General Assembly.
Bills may be pre-filed for the senate between odd year and even year sessions.[72]
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 14 through May 3.
Major issues
Gov. Terry Branstad's legislative agenda includes investment in the state education system and cutting commercial property taxes. Unlike most states, Iowa legislators begin the session with a nearly $1 billion budget surplus.[73]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the General Assembly was in session from January 9 to May 9.
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the General Assembly was in session from January 10 through July 1. The legislature was in an extended session due to concerns on how to reduce commercial property taxes. House Republicans favored a 25 per cent reduction in commercial property tax rates, while Senate Democrats proposed a tax credit that would be paid directly to the owners of the commercial properties.[74] During the extended session, legislators did not receive per diem. Iowa legislative rules allow lawmakers to receive per diem for a maximum of 100 days in even numbered years, and 110 days in odd numbered years. The 110th calendar day of the 2011 session was April 30. The rules may be amended at any time to extend the legislative session.
Session highlights
Budget
Iowa ended its 2011 fiscal year with $54.5 million in revenue collections above estimated figures, an increase of 6 percent over fiscal 2010. The 6 percent increase was one percent higher than expected.[75]
As a whole, Iowa collected $329.3 million more in revenue than it did last year. Last year's overall total revenue is still not yet known, due to the continuing flow of expenses or revenue collections that can be attributed to fiscal year 2010. To account for this, the books will remain open until September, as is customary for the state.[75]
School funding
A brief tussle over state spending on public schools ended in compromise, with Democrats agreeing to a Republican-proposed 2 percent increase in spending (equivalent to about $60 million) for FY 2012. The Senate approved the plan by a vote of 26-19 and the House by 56-39. Though Democrats had originally asked for a 3 percent overall increase in funding, they secured an extra $24 million for preschool programs in exchange for their support for the Republican plan.[76]
No property tax reform
Lawmakers failed to agree on reforms to the state's property tax system. House Republicans called for across-the-board property tax cuts, while Democrats sought to limit tax concessions to small businesses. Senate Majority Leader Michael Gronstal said the Republican plan "favored tax breaks for giant corporations."[76] Republicans countered that "all property taxpayers in the state of Iowa deserve relief."
Iowa collects commercial property taxes based on 100 percent of a property's assessed value, a considerably higher level than in neighboring states; in Missouri, for instance, taxes are only calculated based on 33.3% of a property's value.
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the General Assembly was in session from January 11th to March 30th.
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Iowa was given a grade of C in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[77]
Kansas State Legislature
Article 2 of the Kansas Constitution establishes when the Legislature is to be in session. Section 8 of Article 2 states that the Legislature is to convene on the second Monday of January of each year. Section 8 also limits the length of regular sessions in even-numbered years to ninety calendar days, but it allows these sessions to be extended by a two-thirds affirmative vote of both houses. In 2010, this kind of extension occurred, moving the session's adjournment date from March 30th to May 28th.
Bills may be pre-filed between sessions in odd years and sessions in even years for consideration during the following sessions.[78]
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 14 through April 29 (estimated).
Major issues
Major issues to be addressed in 2013 include school funding, a settlement between tobacco companies and the state, mental health funding, KanCare, illegal immigration, pension system changes, shifting taxes to the local level, and liquor sales.[79]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was scheduled to be in session from January 9 through May 14. However, due to infighting among Republicans, the session had to be extended through the 20th. Major issues which remained unresolved included education funding, state employee pension reform, redistricting and the budget. Gov. Sam Brownback (R) stated, “I think it’s reasonable for people to say they should have gotten things done in 90 days. My hope is that they wrap it up here pretty soon.”[80]
Major issues
Alongside the budget, legislators considered reforming the school financing formula and expanding Medicaid's managed care system.[81]
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the Legislature was in session from January 10-June 1, 2011.
Session highlights
Business tax deductions
In the 2011 session, the legislature allowed "expensing," a way for businesses to receive larger tax deductions for start-up costs such as new equipment and software. [82]
School funding
In July, state revenue officials forecast a revenue surplus of at least $175 million for FY 2011 (July 2010-July 2011), a pleasant windfall for policymakers that had cut $800 million out of the FY 2012 budget not six months ago. In response, state education administrators petitioned lawmakers to restore some of the funding for schools that was eliminated as part of Governor Sam Brownback's austerity measures.
Board of Education member Sue Storm was pessimistic about the prospect of reversing the cuts, which saw aid to Kansas public schools drop about $232 per pupil in the 2012 fiscal year. Others argued the board should ask for only a percentage of the funds back as a way to improve relations with austerity-minded legislators. Given the Republican legislative majority had proposed eliminating the state's corporate income tax entirely in the 2011 session, a measure that would cost the states about $200 million annually, House Majority Leader Paul Davis saw little reason to substantial increases in funding. He also noted the funding increases would need to be approved during the 2012 session in the midst of an election campaign, when legislators would continue to advocate for tax cuts.[83]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the Legislature's regular session was scheduled to last from January 11th to March 30th. However, the session was extended, and it did not adjourn until May 28th.[84]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Kansas was given a grade of A in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[85]
Kentucky General Assembly
Section 36 of The Legislative Department of the Kentucky Constitution establishes when the General Assembly is required to meet. Regular Sessions convene on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in January. Sessions in odd numbered years can last no more than 30 legislative days and must be concluded by March 30. Sessions in even numbered years can last no more than 60 legislative days and must be concluded by April 15. The governor may call additional special sessions.[86]
Bills may be filed at anytime the House and Senate Clerks' offices are open. [87]
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 8 through March 26.
Major issues
Legislators are expected to address reforms to the states tax code, pension plans for governmental retirees, and legalization of casino style gambling. Additionally, they will also have to revisit redistricting, as plans passed last year were rejected by the state Supreme Court.[88]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from January 3 through April 9.
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the Senate was in session from January 4 through March 9, and reconvened for a special session on March 14. The session was called to an early end by Senate President David Williams on March 9, 12 days sooner than the originally scheduled end date of March 22. [89] On March 9, Governor Steve Beshear called to re-convene on March 14 for a special legislative session, focused on balancing the state's Medicaid budget. [90] The House adjourned the special session on March 25,[91] however, the Senate returned on April 6, adjourning the special session the same day.[92]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the General Assembly was in session from January 5th to April 15th.
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Kentucky was given a grade of F in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[93]
Louisiana State Legislature
Article III of the Louisiana Constitution establishes when the Legislature is to be in session. Section 2 of Article III states that, in even-numbered years, the Legislature shall convene on the last Monday in March and meet for no more than sixty legislative days during a period of eighty-five calendar days. In odd-numbered years, the Legislature is to convene on the last Monday in April and meet for no more than forty-five legislative days during a period of sixty calendar days. During regular sessions in odd-numbered years, the Legislature can only consider measures regarding the state budget, revenues, and appropriations.
Section 2 of Article III also allows the Legislature to be called into a special session by the Governor of Louisiana or by a majority of the members of each legislative house. During special sessions, the Legislature can only legislate on matters related to the proclaimed purposes of the session.
Section 2 of Article III also authorizes the Governor of Louisiana to call an emergency session without prior notice in the event of a public emergency.
Bills may be prefiled at any time, except between when the legislature adjourns for an election and when the election results are certified.[94]
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from April 8 to June 6.
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from March 12 through June 4.
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the Legislature was in regular session from April 25 through June 23. The Legislature was in a special session regarding the census and redistricting from March 20-April 15. [95]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the Legislature was in session from March 29th to June 21st.[96]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Louisiana was given a grade of D in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[97]
Maine State Legislature
Article IV, Part Third of the Maine Constitution establishes when the Legislature is to be in session. Section 1 of the Part states that, following a legislative election, the Legislature is to convene its first regular session on the first Wednesday of December. The second regular session of the legislature is to convene in the next even-numbered year. This second session is to convene on the first Wednesday after the first Tuesday in January. Section 1 also instructs the Legislature to enact statutory limits on the length of its regular sessions.
Section 1 also establishes the procedures for convening special sessions of the Legislature. A special session can be convened by the President of the Senate and Speaker of the House, with the consent of a majority of legislators from each political party.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from December 5, 2012 through June.
Major issues
Gov. Paul LePage (R) is pushing for legislators to address education, energy and domestic violence this year. Democrats, meanwhile, say they want to focus on jobs and strengthening the state's economy. One issue no one can avoid - a new two-year budget that 's facing a $128 million deficit.[98]
Election of constitutional officers
The Maine House of Representatives voted 79-59 on June 4 to reject a proposal to allow voters to select the state’s Treasurer, Secretary of State and Attorney General. LD 1279 called for a referendum to amend the Maine State Constitution to shift the selection of these officers from the Legislature to voters.[99] The bill sponsored by Representative Andre Cushing (R) called for two-year terms for the Treasurer and Secretary of State and a four-year term for the Attorney General. Legislators currently select all three officers every two years. This legislation was blocked on June 3 by the Maine State Senate 18-16.[100]
The House and Senate votes largely followed party lines with Democratic majorities in both houses. Republican majorities in the House and Senate blocked similar legislation in 2011.[101][102]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from January 4 through April 14, was in recess from April 14 through May 13, and adjourned May 31.
Major issues
Lawmakers faced a $221 million budget deficit. They also looked to restructure the state Medicaid system, reduce energy costs and improve charter schools.[103]
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the Legislature was in session from December 1, 2010-June 28, 2011. Maine statutes required the legislature to adjourn by June 15, however, pursuant to Joint Order S.P. 520, the regular session was extended for five legislative days, slated to end on June 22, 2011.[104] On June 16, Governor Paul LePage ordered lawmakers home for 12 days, only to return to the statehouse for a special veto session to begin June 28. [105]
The all-GOP legislature and Republican Governor Paul LePage agreed on a fiscal year 2012 budget late in the session, with LePage signing the final bill on June 20. Legislators moderated the governor's demands for deep fiscal austerity, but the final deal still cut taxes by $150 million, lowering the top income tax rate from 8.5% to 7.95% and taking 70,000 low-income citizens off the income tax rolls entirely. It also put Dirigo Health, an "experiment in near-universal health care, on the chopping block; Dirigo, passed in 2004, will be phased out entirely by the beginning of 2014. LePage's first budget also cut welfare programs including benefits for legal noncitizens and limited participation in the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program to five years. The governor, who has promised to enact deeper spending cuts in the future, suggested the changes would help Maine move away from its reputation as a "welfare destination state."[106]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the Legislature was in session from January 6th to April 12th.
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Maine was given a grade of D in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[107]
Maryland General Assembly
Article III of the Maryland Constitution establishes when the General Assembly is to be in session. Section 14 of Article III states that the General Assembly is to convene in regular session every year on the second Wednesday of January.
Section 14 also contains the procedures for convening extraordinary sessions of the General Assembly. If a majority of the members of each legislative house petition the Governor of Maryland with a request for an extraordinary session, the Governor is constitutionally required to proclaim an extraordinary session.
Article II of the Maryland Constitution also gives the Governor of Maryland the power to proclaim an extraordinary session without the request of the General Assembly. Sessions last for 90 continuous days but can be extended for up to 30 days by vote of the legislature.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 9 through April 8.
Major issues
Gov. Martin O'Malley's (D) legislative agenda includes an assault weapons ban, boosting the state's wind power industry, and repeal of the death penalty. Transportation funding will also be a major issue.[108]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from January 11 through April 19.
2011
In 2011, the General Assembly was in session from January 12 through April 11. [109] A special redistricting session is planned for week of October 17, however an exact date is not yet known.[110]
2010
In 2010, the Maryland General Assembly was in session from January 13th to April 12th. [111]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Maryland was given a grade of B in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[112]
Massachusetts General Court
The Massachusetts Constitution contains provisions regarding when the General Court is to meet. This subject has been the focus of several amendments to the Constitution. Originally, Chapter 1 of the Massachusetts Constitution called for the General Court to convene on the last Wednesday of May. Then, Amending Article X called for legislative sessions to convene yearly on the first Wednesday of January. Later, Amending Article LXXII called for the General Court to meet once every two years, but Amending Article LXXV repealed that amendment. Therefore, the rules that currently govern when the General Court is to meet are in Amending Article X.
Article X calls for the General Court to convene its regular session on the first Wednesday of January. The session does not dissolve until a new regular session convenes in the next year. Article X specifies that it does not prevent the General Court from meeting at any time that it judges necessary.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the General Court will be in session from January 2 to a date to be determined.
Major issues
As lawmakers settle in for the legislature's 188th session, they'll address revenue shortfalls, transportation financing, gun control, and health care costs.[113]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the General Court was in session starting January 4 through July 31, but informal sessions may take place throughout the year.
Major issues
Leading the agenda was a crackdown on abuses at special education collaboratives in the state. Other issues included controlling health costs and a sentencing bill that would bar parole for prisoners convicted of more than two violent crimes.[114]
In August 2012, Sen. Mike Rush (D) and Rep. Ed Coppinger (D) released a record of legislative accomplishments from the session. Among the major policy items successfully addressed, they note the passage of balanced FY 2012 and 2013 state budgets, a health care cost containment bill, strategic economic development legislation, and the legalization of casino gaming.[115]
2011
In 2011, the General Court will be in session from January 5 through a date not yet decided by the Legislature. [116]
2010
In 2010, the General Court convened its session on January 6th, and it remained in session throughout 2010.[117]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Massachusetts was given a grade of F in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[118]
Michigan State Legislature
The Michigan Legislature, according to Article 4 Section 13 of the Michigan constitution, must convene by noon on the second Wednesday in January. The Legislature is at liberty to choose when to adjourn, though all bills carry over into the next session.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 9 through December 31 (estimated).
Major issues
After a extremely divided lame-duck session in December 2012, lawmakers are expected to have a tamer session. Major issues include the regulatory structure of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, increased transportation funding, education reform, and pension changes.[119]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from January 11 though a date yet to be determined.
2011
In 2011, the Legislature will be in session from January 12 through mid December. A specific date is yet to be decided by the Legislature. [120] The 348 calendar days that the Michigan Legislature is in session during 2011 is the longest legislative session in the country.[121]
Session highlights
Tax reform
In the 2011 session, Michigan was a key battleground on corporate taxes. Governor Rick Snyder had made promises during his campaign to eliminate the “Michigan Business Tax,” which was costly and difficult to calculate. Governor Snyder delivered, replacing the tax with a flat 6 percent corporate income tax. The state will recover the $1.8 billion in lost business tax revenues with $1.5 billion in higher personal income tax revenues. Current Michigan law requires the state income tax to drop to 3.9 percent by 2015. Governor Snyder's measure keeps the income tax rate at its current 4.35 percent until January 1, 2013, when it will drop to 4.25 percent. During 2011, Michigan also became the first state in more than 50 years to cut state-level unemployment benefits. [122]
Snyder was also able to secure a controversial measure to extend the state's income tax to pensions, a move the governor said would bring $343 million in new revenue during the coming fiscal year. Public employees, who stand to lose about $90 million of the $343 million total, reacted with outrage. The Michigan State Employees Association promised to file a lawsuit to block the pension tax provision, arguing that taxing state employee pensions violated the constitutional prohibition against "impairing or diminishing a vested public pension." Snyder beat employees to the punch, asking the state supreme court to issue an advisory opinion on the issue by October 1.[123]
2010
In 2010, the Legislature convened its session on January 13th, and it remained in session throughout the year.[124]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Michigan was given a grade of C in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[125]
Minnesota State Legislature
Article IV of the Minnesota Constitution establishes when the Legislature is to be in session. Section 12 of Article IV states that the Legislature is not to meet in regular session for more than 120 legislative days in each two-year period between legislative elections. Section 12 also does not allow the Legislature to meet in regular session after the first Monday following the third Saturday in May of any year. Within these limits, Section 12 allows the Legislature to decide its meeting dates by law.
As such, MN Statute 3.011 establishes that on odd numbered years the legislature must convene on the first Monday in January, unless that lands on January 1, in which case the legislature must convene by the first Wednesday after the first Monday. The legislature is required to set its own date for even numbered years.
Section 12 of Article IV state states that the Governor of Minnesota can call special sessions of the Legislature on extraordinary occasions.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 8 through May 20.
Session Highlights
Tax increase
A bill designed to generate $2.1 billion in new revenue passed the Senate 36-30 and the House 69-65 on May 20, 2013. Governor Mark Dayton signed the tax bill into law on May 23, 2013. This legislation sponsored by Senator Rod Skoe and Representative Ann Lenczewski increases cigarette taxes by $1.60 per pack and creates a higher income tax rate for upper-income earners. The bill creates a tax rate of 9.85 percent for individuals earning $150,000 per year and couples earning $250,000 per year. Increased revenue will be used to fund an expansion of the Mayo Clinic, assist in building a new football stadium for the Minnesota Vikings and fill a $627 million budget deficit.[126][127]
Critics of the tax increase expressed concerns about negative impacts on the state economy. "The bill says the state can spend your money better that you can. This is not a good bill. We are going in the wrong direction. We should be looking at how we can decrease the tax burden," argued Representative Kelby Woodard.[126] Representative Bob Barrett argued against the income tax increase for upper-income earners. "We will now have the fourth-highest income tax rate in the country, and when you look how far down the ranks it goes we are second highest. That will have an impact on our economy, especially since we have border states with lower taxes," said Barrett.[126]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from January 24 to May 10.
2011
In 2011, the Legislature was in session from January 4 through May 23.
Session highlights
Government shutdown
Minnesota's 2011 legislative session was marked by a 20-day government shutdown that saw state parks and highway rest stops shuttered, 22,000 state employees laid off, road construction projects stopped and, perhaps worst of all, beer vendors unable to restock their product due to expired state licenses.[128] The shutdown, Minnesota's second in six years, resulted after Democratic Governor Mark Dayton and the Republican-controlled legislature failed to agree on a budget for the 2012-2013 fiscal biennium. Dayton demanded $1.8 billion in new revenues in the form of new taxes on the state's high earners, while Republicans insisted the state's $5 billion budget deficit be made up solely through spending cuts. As a result, with the exception of some critical services, Minnesota's government officially shut down when the previous fiscal year's budget expired on July 1.
Ultimately, the conflict ended in compromise. In an agreement signed on July 20, Dayton agreed to give up his request for tax increases, while Republicans were forced to agree to $1.4 billion more in spending than they wanted. Commentators on both sides criticized the deal, under which a significant portion of the deficit was funded by borrowing or withholding aid payments to school districts. The lack of a long-term solution to Minnesota's persistent budget problems means that legislators, in the absence of significantly improved revenues, can expect to see the problem recur during the next budget-making session in 2013.
During the shutdown, a minor controversy surrounded 138 legislators who continued to accept pay during the shutdown after 62 of their colleagues and Governor Mark Dayton refused to do so. Ultimately, 65 percent of Democrats and 72 percent of Republicans chose to cash their checks.[129]
2010
In 2010, the Legislature was in session from February 4th to March 17th.
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Minnesota was given a grade of C in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[130]
Mississippi State Legislature
Article IV of the Mississippi Constitution establishes when the Legislature is to meet. Section 36 of Article IV states that the legislature is to convene in regular session on the Tuesday following the first Monday in January of each year. Section 36 limits the length of regular sessions to ninety calendar days, except for once every four years when the regular session can last up to one hundred twenty-five calendar days. The most recent one hundred twenty-five day session was in 2008, and the next session of this kind will be in 2012.
Section 36 also allows the Legislature to extend its sessions for thirty days by a two-thirds vote of both legislative houses. There is no limit on the number of times a session can be extended in this way. In 2010, the Legislature extended its session once, moving the date of adjournment from April 3rd to May 3rd.
Article V of the Mississippi Constitution gives the Governor of Mississippi the power to call the Legislature into extraordinary session. Section 121 of Article V enumerates this power.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 8 through April 7.
Major issues
Alongside creating a budget, legislators will address education issues, namely charter schools, and medicaid expansion.[131]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from January 3 through May 3.[132]
2011
In 2011, the Legislature was in session from January 4 through April 7. [133]
2010
In 2010, the Legislature was originally scheduled to be in session from January 5th to April 3rd. However, the session was extended to May 3rd. Additionally, a special session was held that convened on April 22nd and adjourned on April 23rd.[134]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Mississippi was given a grade of B in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[135]
Missouri General Assembly
Article III of the Missouri Constitution establishes when the General Assembly is to meet. Section 20 of Article III states that the General Assembly shall convene its regular session on the first Wednesday after the first Monday in January of each year.[136] Section 20(a) requires the General Assembly to adjourn its regular session by May 30th.[137]
Section 20(b) of Article III also allows for a special session of the General Assembly to be convened by a joint proclamation of three-fourths of the members of both houses.[138]
Pre-Filed bills may be filed in the House as early as December 1 of the year prior to the session and in the Senate as early as July 1 of the year prior to the session. [139]
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 9 through May 30.
Major issues
Legislative leaders are looking to focus on the state's business climate - issues include tax credits, capital improvements, an income tax cut, and a major revision to the state's criminal code.[140]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the General Assembly was in session from January 4 through May 30.[141][142]
Major issues
The budget was the main focus of the session, as the state faced a $500 million spending gap in January. The agenda at the start of the session also included economic development, Workers Compensation reforms, and overhauling public school funding.[143] Those items joined health care exchanges, birth control, charter schools, and sentencing guidelines for crack cocaine crimes as points of contention and accomplishment over the course of the session.[144]
2011
In 2011, the General Assembly was in regular session from January 5 through May 30. [145] Governor Jay Nixon called for a special legislative session for September 6, however, the session was called off when Republicans hesitated on a push to overhaul state tax credits and authorize several new incentive programs, including one for a China freight hub in St. Louis. Assembly members were sent home so that they might read the revised 219-page measure over the weekend. According to Senate President Pro Tem Robert Mayer, the "important" bill "needs the attention of every member of this body."[146]
Session highlights
Budget cuts
Lawmakers passed a $23.3 billion budget for the 2012 fiscal year in May 2011, representing a $500 million spending cut compared with the previous year. Governor Jay Nixon cut an additional $172 million through "withholds" and $30,000 using his line-item veto before signing off on the budget plan. Withholds are an exercise of the governor's veto authority, but can be restored to the budget if revenues become available.
Education and culture were the big losers in the budget plan, with state universities and community colleges absorbing an average 7 percent cut in state support, and funding completely cut for state arts, public TV and radio programs. The General Assembly itself saw its budget cut by 4.6 percent, while spending on the Missouri Housing Development Corporation housing assistance program was halved.
Still, some programs did see substantial funding increases, including school bus transportation (21 percent), two state higher education scholarships (7 percent) and aid to service providers catering to people with developmental disabilities (2 percent). A new pharmacy partnership between Missouri State University and UMKC was also instituted, receiving $2 million in funding.[147]
2010
In 2010, the General Assembly was in session from January 6th to May 14th. [148][149]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Missouri was given a grade of C in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[150]
Montana State Legislature
Article V of the Montana Constitution establishes when the Legislature is to be in session. Section 6 of Article V states that the Legislature is to meet in every odd-numbered year in a regular session of at most ninety legislative days. However, Section 6 allows any Legislature to increase the limit on the length of any subsequent session. Section 6 also allows for the Legislature to meet in special session when convened by the Governor of Montana or when a special session is requested by a majority of the Legislature's members.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 7 to April 27.
Major issues
Legislative leaders say they will focus on economic development, increased natural resource development and reforms to how the state funds education. While Republicans have a clear majority, Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock has said he will veto bills that are out of the mainstream.[151]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was not in regular session.
2011
In 2011, the Legislature was in session from January 3 through April 28. [152]
2010
In 2010, the Legislature was not in session.[153]
2009
The 61st session of the Montana legislature convened on January 5, 2009 and adjourned on April 25, 2009.
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Montana was given a grade of C in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[154]
Nebraska State Senate (Unicameral)
Article III of the Nebraska Constitution establishes when the Senate is to be in session. Section 10 of Article III states that the Senate is to convene annually on the first Wednesday after the first Monday in January. In odd-numbered years, regular sessions are limited to ninety days. In even-numbered years, regular sessions are limited to sixty days. Sessions in any year can be extended by a four-fifths majority of the Senate.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 9 through May 30 (estimated).
Major issues
Nebraska legislators face a projected $194 million budget shortfall in 2013. A long debate is expected over the possible expansion of Medicaid coverage, while Gov. Dave Heineman (R) is pushing for increased state aid to the University of Nebraska system and state colleges.[155]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Senate was in session from January 4 through April 18.
Major issues
At the top of the list for the legislature was reforming the state's child welfare system, while Governor Dave Heineman's priorities were job creation and maintaining fiscal discipline.[156]
2011
In 2011, the Senate was in session from January 5 through June 8. [157]
2010
In 2010, the Senate was in session from January 6th to April 14th.[158]
Nevada State Legislature
When the Nevada Constitution was adopted, its fourth article established when the Legislature was to be in session. However, Section 29 of Article 4, the section that dealt with legislative sessions, was repealed by vote of the people in the 1958 general election. The session dates for the Nevada Legislature are no longer limited by the Nevada Constitution.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from February 4 through June 3.
Major issues
A major topic in the 77th session of the Nevada Legislature will be taxes. Gov. Brian Sandoval (R) has stated his opposition to new taxes, while Democrats are seeking a discussion on the state's tax structure.[159] Spending, Medicare, and gun-control are also expected to lead the agenda.[160]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was not in regular session.
2011
In 2011, the Legislature was in session from February 7 through June 6. [161]
2010
In 2010, the Legislature was not in regular session.[162] However, the Legislature did meet in 2010 for a special session, which lasted from February 23rd to March 1st.[163]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Nevada was given a grade of B in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[164]
New Hampshire General Court
The Second Part of the New Hampshire Constitution establishes when the General Court is to be in session. Article 3 of the Second Part states that the General Court is to convene annually on the first Wednesday after the first Tuesday in January. Additionally, in even-numbered years, the General Court is to meet on the first Wednesday of December for organizational purposes.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the General Court will be in session from January 2 to late June.
Major issues
The state's budget deficit will top the list of issues in New Hampshire in 2013. Additionally lawmakers will consider education funding, state pensions, and abortion, among other topics.[165]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the General Court was in session from January 4 through June 27.
Major issues
Major issues on the agenda included economic development, job creation, same-sex marriage, and gambling.[166]
2011
In 2011, the General Court was in session from January 5 through July 1. [167]
Session highlights
State employee compensation cuts
In June, lawmakers passed a controversial bill that cut benefits and required longer hours for state employees. Sponsored by Senator Jeb Bradley, the bill called for public employees to contribute an extra 2 percent of their wages to the state's retirement system, a cut to retirement benefits for new hires, and mandated extra hours for all employees. Though the plan, which passed the GOP-controlled legislature, was subsequently vetoed by Democratic John Lynch, Republican lawmakers shoehorned it into law by attaching it to the state budget bill.
During a speech pitching his plan, Bradley said that his plan was "tough medicine" that would save the state, which faced a $4.7 billion unfunded liability, about $700 million over the coming decades.[168][169] In response, employees complained that they had gone six years without any step or cost-of-living pay increases.
2010
In 2010, the General Court was in session from January 6 to July 1.[170]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. New Hampshire was given a grade of A in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[171]
New Jersey State Legislature
Article IV of the New Jersey Constitution provides that each Legislature is constituted for a term of two years, split into two annual sessions. Because the Constitution also specifies that all business from the first year may be continued into the second year, the distinction between the two annual sessions is more ceremonial than actual. The two-year legislative term begins at noon on the second Tuesday in January of each even-numbered year, which for the 2010-2012 term was on January 12, 2010. At the end of the second year, all unfinished business expires.
Article IV also allows the Governor of New Jersey to call special sessions of the Legislature. Additionally, a special session can be called if a majority of each legislative house petitions the Governor requesting a special session.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 10 to a date to be determined.
Major issues
The major issue for the Legislature is rebuilding the state after superstorm Sandy. Gun control is also expected to be addressed.[172]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from January 10 through a date to be determined by the Legislature.
2011
In 2011, the Legislature will be in session from January 12 through a date to be determined by the Legislature. [173]
2010
In 2010, the Legislature convened on January 12, and remained in session throughout the year.[174]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. New Jersey was given a grade of A in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[175]
New Mexico State Legislature
Article IV of the New Mexico Constitution establishes when the Legislature is to be in session. Section 5 of Article IV states that the Legislature is to convene its annual regular session on the third Tuesday of January. In odd-numbered years, the Legislature is to be in session for no longer than sixty days. In even-numbered years, the Legislature is to be in session for no longer than thirty days. In even-numbered years, the Legislature is limited to dealing with budgetary matters, bills that deal with issues raised by special messages of the Governor of New Mexico, and bills vetoed in the previous session by the Governor.
Section 6 of Article IV allows the Governor of New Mexico to call special sessions of the Legislature. Section 6 also allows the Legislature to meet in special session when three-fifths of each house petition the Governor with a request for a special session. Special sessions are not to exceed thirty days in length.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 15 to March 16.
Major issues
Education is expected to be at the forefront of the legislature's 51st session. Other major issues include solvency of the state's public retirement system, tax cuts for state businesses, and tougher anti-DWI laws.[176]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from January 17 through February 16.
Major issues
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.[177]
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.[178]
2011
In 2011, the Legislature was in session from January 18 through March 19. [179] As of late July, a special session will be scheduled for early September, however, a date has not been confirmed by Governor Susana Martinez. As of late July, issues on the agenda include:[180]
- Fireworks use and sale ban in very dry years
- A measure giving in-state companies an advantage when bidding for contracts
- A ban on issuing driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants
The 45 calendar days that the New Mexico Legislature was in session during 2011 is tied with Utah, Wyoming, and Arkansas for the shortest legislative session in the country.[181]
2010
In 2010, the Legislature was in regular session from January 19 to February 18. Additionally, the Senate convened a special session from March 1 to March 4.[182]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. New Mexico was given a grade of C in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[183]
New York State Legislature
Article III of the New York Constitution outlines the legislative power for New York's government. Article III does not limit when the Legislature can convene in regular session. However, Section 18 of Article III does contain provisions related to special sessions of the Legislature. Section 18 states that a special session can be called by a petition of request from two-thirds of both legislative houses.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 9 through December 31 (estimated).
Major issues
Gun control tops the list to be addressed by legislators in 2013. Other major issues include raising the minimum wage, securing federal dollars for victims of Superstorm Sandy, education, job creation, legalizing casinos off of Native American lands, and restrictions to the New York City Police Department's stop-and-frisk procedures.[184]
Gun control:
Following the December 14, 2012 school shooting in Newton, Connecticut, Gov. Cuomo sought to make gun control a major issue in 2013. To that end, one of the first things the Legislature did in its 2013 session was to pass a tougher assault weapons ban that includes restrictions on ammunition and the sale of guns, as well as provisions to keep guns from the mentally ill who make threats. New York was the first state to pass new laws after the tragedy.[185]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from January 4 through June 22.
Major issues
Redistricting was a divisive issue in 2011 and had to be dealt with in 2012. Other issues included addressing a $3.5 billion budget gap and a proposal to ban hydrofracking.[186]
2011
In 2011, the Legislature will be in session from January 5 through a date to be determined by the Legislature. [187]
2010
In 2010, the Legislature convened its regular session on January 6. The Legislature remained in regular session throughout the year. Additionally, the Legislature was in an ongoing special session, which convened in 2009, dealing with issues of deficit reduction.[188]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. New York was given a grade of A in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[189]
North Carolina General Assembly
Section 11 of Article II of the North Carolina Constitution establishes that the General Assembly is to convene a new regular session every two years, and that the dates for these sessions are to be set by law. Sessions in the General Assembly of North Carolina last two years and begin on odd numbered years after elections. Sessions begin at noon on the third Wednesday after the second Monday in January.[190]
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 9 through July 1 (estimated).
Major issues
With the GOP assuming a trifecta for the first time since 1898, leaders are looking to focus on tax reform, cutting government regulations and reshaping the state's public schools.[191]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature convened on May 16 and adjourned July 3.
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the General Assembly was in regular session from January 26 through mid June. [192] A special session dealing with redistricting began July 13 and ended July 28. The redistricting session covered more than just redistricting, with Republicans overriding five of Governor Perdue's vetoes. Some of the overturned vetoes include the Women's Right to Know Act and state regulatory overhaul. Democratic lawmakers achieved victory in sustaining the veto on the voter I.D. bill. [193]
A second special session was called for September 12 to consider constitutional amendments, including a potential ban on same-sex marriage.[193]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the General Assembly was in session from May 12 to July 11. [194]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. North Carolina was given a grade of A in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[195]
North Dakota Legislative Assembly
Article IV of the North Dakota Constitution establishes when the Assembly is to be in session. Section 7 of Article IV states that the Assembly is to convene in regular session every January after a legislative election. This means that the Assembly convenes in January of every odd-numbered year. Section 7 specifies that the convening date is to be the first Tuesday after the third day in January, unless this date is changed by law. Section 7 limits the length of regular sessions to no more than eighty days every two years.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 8 through May 1.
Major issues
Gov. Jack Dalrymple (R) and GOP leaders expect issues related to the state's oil boom to dominate the agenda.[196]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was not in regular session.
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the Legislative Assembly was in regular session from January 4 through April 28. [197] A special session has been called by Governor Jack Dalrymple for November 7 through 12 to cover legislative redistricting and disaster relief.[198]
Interim Committees
On May 25, 2011 the Legislative Management Committee appointed members to the state's interim committees. Historically, majority and minority members of the Legislative Management Committee are appointed as chairs of the interim committees. However in 2011, only Republican legislators were appointed to chair interim committees. House Minority Leader Jerome Kelsh (D) called the move partisan and a "break with tradition." House Majority Leader Al Carlson (D) argued that the appointments reflected wishes of voters in electing Republican candidates. Regardless of the particular committee chair, Republicans will be a majority on all committees. Only a few states permit minority committee chairs.[199]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the Legislative Assembly did not meet in regular session.[200]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. North Dakota was given a grade of C in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[201]
Ohio General Assembly
Article II of the Ohio Constitution establishes when the General Assembly is to meet. Section 8 of Article II states that the regular session is to convene on the first Monday in January of each year, or the following day if that Monday is a legal holiday.
Section 8 also contains rules for convening special sessions of the General Assembly. It empowers the Governor of Ohio or the presiding officers of the General Assembly to convene a special session. For the presiding officers to convene the session, they must act jointly.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the General Assembly will be in session from January 7 to a date to be determined.
Major issues
As Keith Faber (R) takes over as President of the Senate, the main focus of the legislature will be adopting a new biennial state budget. Additionally, lawmakers will address casino regulation, state collective-bargaining laws, Medicare expansion, and prison overcrowding.[202]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the General Assembly began its legislative session on January 3.
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the General Assembly will be in session from January 3 through a date to be determined by the Ohio Legislature. [203]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the General Assembly convened its legislative session on January 4th, and it remains in session throughout the year.[204]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Ohio was given a grade of B in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[205]
Oklahoma State Legislature
Article V of the Oklahoma Constitution establishes when the Legislature is to be in session. Section 26 of Article V states that the Legislature is to meet in regular session on the first Monday in February of each year, and it is to adjourn its regular session by the last Friday in May of each year. Additionally, Section 26 also states that the Legislature is to meet for organizational purposes on the first Tuesday following the first Monday in January of each odd-numbered year.
Section 27 of Article V contains the rules for convening special sessions of the Legislature. Section 27 allows a special session to be called by the Governor of Oklahoma or by a written call signed by two-thirds of the members of both legislative houses.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from February 4 through May 31.
Major issues
For the 2013 session, leaders of the Republican majority said their goals include changes to the state pension system and workers compensation funds, tax cuts, and increased funding for education.[206]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from February 6 through May 25.
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the Legislature will be in session from February 7 through May 27. [207]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the Legislature was in session from February 1 to May 28.[208]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Oklahoma was given a grade of D in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[209]
Oregon State Legislature
Article IV of the Oregon Constitution establishes when the Legislature is to meet. Section 10 of Article IV states that the Legislature will meet in regular session once every two years. The section goes on to establish starting dates for these sessions, but these dates have been changed by law (as the section allows). Under current law, sessions convene on the second Monday in January of all odd years.[210]
Section 10 of Article IV also requires the presiding officers of both legislative houses to convene an emergency session of the Legislature when a majority of the members of each house request an emergency session.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from February 4 through June 21 (estimated).
Major issues
Major issues for 2013 include in-state tuition and driver's licenses for undocumented immigrants. Both measures have been hotly debated in recent sessions but have not passed.[211] They are also expected to take up background checks for guns.[212]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from February 1 through March 6.
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the Legislature was in session from February 1 through June 30. [213]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the Legislature did not hold a regular session. However, the Legislature was in special session from February 1st to February 25th.[214]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Oregon was given a grade of C in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[215]
Pennsylvania General Assembly
Article II of the Pennsylvania Constitution establishes when the General Assembly is to meet. Section 4 of Article II states that the General Assembly is to convene its regular session on the first Tuesday of January each year.
Section 4 gives the Governor of Pennsylvania the authority to convene special sessions of the General Assembly either when he judges a special session to be in the public interest, or when a majority of each legislative House requests a special session.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the General Assembly will be in session from January 2 to a date to be determined.
Major issues
Like many other states, Pennsylvania lawmakers will have to work on a budget deficit. Other issues include economic development, public pension reform, liquor privatization, and child abuse.[216]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the General Assembly began its legislative session on January 3.
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the General Assembly will be in session from January 4 through a date to be determined by the General Assembly. [217]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the General Assembly convened its legislative session on January 5, and it remained in session throughout the year.[218]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Pennsylvania was given a grade of C in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[219]
Rhode Island General Assembly
Article VI of the Rhode Island Constitution establishes when the General Assembly is to be in session. Section 3 of Article states that the General Assembly is to convene its regular session on the first Tuesday of January in each year.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the General Assembly will be in session from January 1 through late June.
Major issues
In 2013, legislators will address a budget deficit estimated at $69 million, legalization of same-sex marriage, gun control, and economic development.[220]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the General Assembly was in session from January 3 through June 13.
Major issues
The legislature had to address a $120 million budget deficit. Legislators wanted to cut spending to close the gap while Governor Lincoln Chafee (I) pushed for a tax raise. Major issues also included reducing municipal pension costs and reducing regulations to spur economic growth.[221]
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the General Assembly was in session from January 4 - July 1. The legislature is in recess until October, when a special session is planned to tackle the cost of public-employee pensions. [222]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the General Assembly was in session from January 5 to June 11.[223]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Rhode Island was given a grade of D in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[224]
South Carolina State Legislature
Article III of the South Carolina Constitution establishes when the Legislature is to be in session. Section 9 of Article III states that the Legislature is to convene on the second Tuesday of January each year. Section 9 allows the General Assembly to recede from session for up to thirty days by a majority vote of the legislative house seeking to recede. Furthermore, one or both houses can recede from session for more than thirty days if that action is approved by two-thirds of the members.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 8 through June 6.
Major issues
Due to a hacker successfully stealing the personal information of 6.4 million people from the state's Department of Revenue computer system, computer security will be a top priority. Other issues include improving the state's roads and bridges and addressing healthcare.[225]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from January 11 through June 7.
Major issues
Legislators addressed a budget surplus of $900 million. Major agenda issues included tax reform, job security measures, reforming the state retirement system, and creating a new school funding formula.[226]
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the Legislature was in regular session from January 11 through June 2. [227] On June 2, Governor Nikki Haley attempted to call the Legislature into an "emergency" special session to begin on June 7 to create the new South Carolina Department of Administration. A lawsuit was filed by Senate President Pro Tem Glenn McConnell, in which he contended that Haley's call for a special session was unconstitutional, and that it violated the state Constitution's requirement of separation of powers among the governor, legislature and courts. [228] On June 6, the South Carolina Supreme Court ruled 3-2 against Governor Haley, stating that her order violated the Legislature's ability to set its calendar and agenda. [229]
The legislature met in a special redistricting session from June 14 - July 1. [230] The legislature re-convened July 26. [231]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the Legislature was in session from January 12 to June 3.[232]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. South Carolina was given a grade of C in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[233]
South Dakota State Legislature
Article III of the South Dakota Constitution establishes when the Legislature is to be in session. Section 7 of Article III states that the Legislature is to meet in regular session each year on the second Tuesday of January.
The South Dakota Constitution also contains provisions concerning special sessions of the Legislature. Section 3 of Article IV allows the Governor of South Dakota to convene a special session of the Legislature. Additionally, Section 31 of Article III allows for a special session to be convened by the presiding officers of both legislative houses upon the written request of two-thirds of the members of each house.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 8 through March 25.
Major issues
Gov. Dennis Daugaard (R) has asked legislators to focus on reforming the state's criminal justice system. They will also have to approve a new, balanced budget.[234]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from January 10 through March 19.
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the Legislature was in session from January 11 through March 28. [235]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the Legislature was in session from January 12 to March 29.[236]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. South Dakota was given a grade of C in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[237]
Tennessee General Assembly
The Tennessee General Assembly convenes on the second Tuesday in January on the years following elections as outlined by Article II, Section 8 of the Tennessee Constitution. The legislature is limited to 90 paid legislative days within a two year term.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 8 through May 20 (estimated).
Major issues
Republicans have a supermajority for the first time since the Civil War era. Major issues include guns, school vouchers, and tax cuts to wine in grocery stores.[238]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the General Assembly was in session from January 10 through May 1.
Major issues
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 said the session will focus on job creation and eliminating policies and regulations that restrict businesses, including the inheritance tax, and reforming unemployment insurance.[239]
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the General Assembly will be in session from January 11 through May 1. [240]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the General Assembly was in regular session from January 12th to June 10th. Additionally, the General Assembly met in special session from January 12th to January 25th to deal with educational issues related to Race to the Top funds.[241]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Tennessee was given a grade of C in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[242]
Texas State Legislature
Article III of the Texas Constitution establishes when the Legislature is to be in session. Section 5 of Article III states that the Legislature shall meet every two years at times to be established by law. Current law establishes the start of session to be noon on the second Tuesday in January of all odd numbered years.[243] Section 5 goes on to say that the Legislature can also be convened by the Governor of Texas. Sessions are limited to 140 days.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature was in session from January 8 through May 27. Thirty minutes after the regular session ended, Governor Rick Perry called legislators back for a special session starting that evening.[244]
Major issues
Along with the necessity of creating a new budget, some of the biggest issues included medicaid and school funding, a water shortage, and reforming the school finance system.[245]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was not in regular session.
2011 (82nd Legislature)
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
Regular session
In 2011, the Legislature was in session from January 11 through May 30. [246]Major themes throughout the session were fixing a multi-billion dollar budget shortfall, state and congressional redistricting, and immigration reform. While redistricting maps were passed for the Texas House of Representatives, the Texas State Senate, and the State Board of Education, the legislature failed to pass a congressional map within the regular session.
Special session
The 82nd Legislative Session officially ended Monday May 30, 2011. Due to a lack of progress on key legislative items, Governor Rick Perry called a special session which began first thing Tuesday May 31, 2011. Of primary concern in the special session is passing supporting legislation needed to balance the budget. Even though a budget bill passed both the House and Senate during the regular session, a last-minute filibuster by Democratic Senator Wendy Davis halted the passing of an essential school finance bill that was required to balance the budget. The Texas Constitution requires a balanced budget, so a special session was called. Balancing the budget is not the only item on the special session agenda. Medicaid reform, immigration, and congressional redistricting are amongst the issues likely to be addressed.[247]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the Legislature did not meet in regular session.[248]
2009 (81st Legislature)
In 2009, the Legislature met in session from January 13 through June 1. [249]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Texas was given a grade of A in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[250]
Utah State Legislature
Section 2 of Article VI of the Utah Constitution establishes that the Legislature is to convene a new session every two years on the second Monday in January. This means that the "2010 session" was actually a continuation of a regular session that convened in 2009. Section 16 of Article VI limits these regular sessions to sixty legislative days, except in cases of impeachment.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 28 through March 14.
Major issues
Ethics reform is expected to be a major issue in 2013 due to accusations and controversy surrounding newly elected Attorney General John Swallow (R). Adoption rights, alcohol laws and education funding are also expected to be addressed.[251][252]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from January 23 through March 8.
Major issues
Major topics included a projected $13 billion budget, improving technology for students, illegal immigration, and infrastructure improvements.[253]
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the Legislature was in session from January 24 through March 10. [254] A single day special session was called by Governor Gary Herbert for July 27, to consider several issues, including adjustments to health insurance rates, liquor commission guidelines, judicial evaluations, and adopting another resolution supporting a federal balanced budget amendment.[255] Gov. Herbert has called for a second special session this year, set for the week of October 3. During that week, the legislature will cover redistricting issues.[256]
The 45 calendar days that the Utah Legislature is in regular session during 2011 is tied with Wyoming, New Mexico, and Arkansas for the shortest legislative session in the country.[257]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the Legislature was in session from January 25 to March 11.[258]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Utah was given a grade of B in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[259]
Vermont State Legislature
The Vermont State Legislature meets for biennial sessions starting on odd numbered years on the first Wednesday after the first Monday in January, pursuant to Section 7 of the Legislative Department of the Vermont Constitution. The opening date for even numbered years is established by the sitting legislature during the year prior.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 9 through May 10 (estimated).
Major issues
Lawmakers will have to address a projected budget shortfall of $50-$70 million.They are also expected to take up physician assisted death, and marijuana decriminalization.[260]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from January 3 through May 5.
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the Legislature was in session from January 5 through mid May. [261]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the Legislature was in session from January 5 to May 12.[262]
Elections
Legislative elections are held in November of every even-numbered year. Representatives and Senators serve two-year terms. One must be a resident of the state for the two years, and of the legislative district for the one year, immediately preceding the election in order to qualify for either house.
Leadership
The House is headed by the Speaker of the House, while the Senate is headed by the State's Lieutenant Governor as the Senate President. The Senate President has only a casting vote. More often, the Senate is presided over by the President Pro Tempore, or temporary President.
Functions
The Legislature is empowered to make law, subject to the Governor's power to veto a bill. However, the veto may be overridden by the Legislature if there is a two-thirds majority in favor of overriding in each House.
The Legislature has the sole power to propose amendments to the Vermont Constitution. An amendment must originate in the Senate, where it must receive a two-thirds vote. After passing the Senate, it must also receive a majority vote in the House. Any amendment that passes both Houses, must be repassed by majority votes, after a newly elected legislature is seated; again, first in the Senate, then in the House. The proposed amendment must then be passed by a majority of the state's voters at a referendum. Only every other Senate session may initiate the amendment process. Thus, Senates elected in off-year (i.e. non-Presidential) elections may initiate amendments, but not Senates elected during Presidential elections. (Vermont Constitution, Chapter 2, Section 72)
The role of third parties
The General Assembly is notable for being the only state legislature in the United States with a significant third-party presence. Six members of the House belong to the Vermont Progressive Party, a center-left party similar to the Social Democratic Party of Germany or the Social Democratic Party of Finland (SDP). Several other parties that have won legislative seats include the Green Party, and the Liberty Union Party, based largely on the philosophy of Eugene V. Debs. Some members of the smaller parties caucus with members of the Vermont Democratic Party.
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Vermont was given a grade of B in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[263]
Virginia General Assembly
Article IV of the Virginia Constitution establishes when the General Assembly is to be in session. Section 6 of Article IV states that the General Assembly is to convene annually on the second Wednesday in January. In even-numbered years, regular sessions are limited to sixty days. In odd-numbered years, regular sessions are limited to thirty days. Section 6 allows the General Assembly to extend its regular sessions by thirty days if two-thirds of each house vote to extend the session.
Section 6 allows the Governor of Virginia to convene special sessions of the General Assembly. Section 6 also allows for a special session to be called when it is requested by two-thirds of the members of each house.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the General Assembly will be in session from January 9 through February 23.
Major issues
Major issues for 2013 include abortion, education, transportation, gun control, and ending a ban on uranium mining.[264]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the General Assembly was in regular session from January 11 through March 10.[265]
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the Legislature was in regular session from January 12 through February 27. On February 27, a special redistricting session was convened. A reconvened session will begin on April 6 at 12 p.m. to consider any Governor's amendments and/or vetoes to legislation passed by the General Assembly. This is the only business that can occur during the reconvened session. [266]
A second special session convened June 9 and lasted through July 29. The session was called to elect judges to the state Supreme Court and the Court of Appeals.[267]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the General Assembly was in session from January 13 to March 13.[268]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Virginia was given a grade of A in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[269]
Washington State Legislature
Article II of the Washington Constitution establishes when the Legislature is to be in session. Section 12 of Article II allows the dates of regular sessions to be determined by statute. Current law calls for the legislature to meet on the second Monday in January.[270] Section 12 of the constitution limits the length of regular sessions to 105 days in odd-numbered years and 60 days in even-numbered years.
Section 12 also establishes rules for convening special sessions of the Legislature. It states that special sessions can be called by the Governor of Washington or by resolution of two-thirds of the members of each legislative house. Special sessions are not to exceed 30 days in length.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 14 through April 28.
Major issues
The budget remains the most pressing issue for the state. Other agenda items include marijuana, child sex abuse, gun control, wolves, small businesses, human trafficking, and healthcare.[271]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from January 9 through March 8.
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the Legislature was in session from January 10 through April 24. [272]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the Legislature was in regular session from January 11 to March 11. Additionally, the Legislature was in special session from March 15 to April 12 to deal with issues related to the economy and the state budget.[273][274]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Washington was given a grade of A in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[275]
Records exemptions
The Washington state legislature is one of several states that exempts many of its own records from public disclosure. According to the state's Public Records Act, legislators are not required to reveal all their email correspondence and other internal communications to the public. Adam Kline, according to the Seattle Times, has expressed hostility toward the idea that these records should be public.[276],[277]
Television coverage
Debates within both the House and Senate, as well as committee meetings and other special events within or relating to the legislature are broadcast throughout Washington on TVW, the state public affairs network.
West Virginia State Legislature
Article VI of the West Virginia Constitution establishes when the Legislature is to be in session. Section 18 of Article VI states that the Legislature is to convene its regular session on the second Wednesday of January of each year. Once every four years, on the year in which the Governor of West Virginia is inaugurated, the Legislature holds a thirty day recess after the first day of the session. This recess is designed to give the Governor time to prepare a budget.
Section 22 of Article VI limits regular sessions of the Legislature to sixty days. Regular sessions can be extended by a two-thirds vote of the members of both legislative houses.
Section 19 of Article VI gives the Governor of West Virginia the power to convene the Legislature into special session. Section 19 also requires the Governor to convene a special session if it is requested by three-fifths of the members of each legislative house.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 9 through April 13.
Major issues
Major issues include the availability of soft drinks in schools, repeal of the law allowing the sterilization of "mental defectives," and treatment of sexually-transmitted diseases.[278]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from January 11 through March 10.
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the Legislature was in regular session from January 12 through March 18. [279] An August 1 special session was called by Governor Earl Ray Tomblin to pass legislation related to redistricting and other topics.[280] A second special session began on August 15, to replace the House of Delegates' redistricting plan. The House's plan, which passed during the first special session on August 1, must be vetoed because of errors. The plan contains duplicate voter precinct populations for districts in both Kanawha and Morgan counties.[281]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the Legislature was in regular session from January 13 to March 20. Additionally, the Legislature met in special session from May 13 to May 19.[282][283]
Origination of bills
Bills, even revenue bills, and resolutions may originate in either house.
Veto override
For budget bills or supplementary appropriations bills, two-thirds of the members elected to each house are required to override the governor's veto of a bill or items or parts thereof. For all other bills, a simple majority of each house is required.
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. West Virginia was given a grade of B in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[284]
Wisconsin State Legislature
Article IV of the Wisconsin Constitution contains provisions related to the meeting of the Legislature. Section 11 of Article IV states that the times for regular sessions are to be provided by law. Session times and dates are established by calendar, which is voted on at the begginning of each two year session. Section 11 also states that the Governor of Wisconsin has the power to call the Legislature into special session.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 7 through a date to be determined.
Major issues
Following the extreme polarization of the last two years, Gov. Scott Walker (R) said he would push for a more moderate agenda in 2013. Alongside the creation of a new budget, main issues will include job creation, workforce development, tax cuts, education reform and transportation infrastructure.[285]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from January 10 through March 16 with a return for limited business on April 24.
Major issues
With potential recalls of Governor Scott Walker (R), Lieutenant Governor Rebecca Kleefisch (R) and four Republican state senators, debate on major legislation was expected to be limited.[286] Going into the session, Republican leaders said they were 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.[287]
The six recalls dominated the session. Ultimately on June 5, recalls against the Governor, Lt. Governor, and three of the state senators were unsuccessful. The fourth recall, that against Van Wanggaard, went to a recount. Wanggaard was defeated, giving Democrats control of the Senate.
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the Legislature adjourned a special session at the request of Governor Scott Walker on January 4, 2011. The special session was called to consider legislation regarding tax credits, tort law, medical savings accounts, other legislation relating to taxation, and the budget repair bill. The legislature's special session will be ongoing. [288] The regular session began on January 11. An extraordinary session was called by the Legislature from June 13-30, with another extraordinary session scheduled for July 19-29. The next scheduled floor period is September 13, 2011. Though the January special session is ongoing, special session bills may be taken up in the interim. [289]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the Legislature convened its legislative session on January 19, and it ended its last scheduled floor-period on April 22. [290][291]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Wisconsin was given a grade of D in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[292]
Wyoming State Legislature
Article III of the Wyoming Constitution establishes when the Legislature is to be in session. Sections 6 and 7 of Article III contain the relevant provisions. The Legislature is to convene in regular session for no more than sixty legislative working days every two years, and no more than forty legislative days in any year. In odd-numbered years, the Legislature meets for a general and budget session, beginning on the second Tuesday of January. In even-numbered years, the Legislature meets for a session devoted to budgetary matters.
Section 7 of Article III contains the provisions for convening special sessions of the Legislature. Special sessions can be convened by the proclamation of the Governor of Wyoming, or the Legislature can convene a special session of up to twenty legislative days if the session is requested by a majority of the members of each legislative house.
2013
- See also: Dates of 2013 state legislative sessions
In 2013, the Legislature will be in session from January 8 through March 1.
Major issues
In what is expected to be a busy session, major issues include "opting out" of the Affordable Healthcare Act and Medicaid, a 10-cent fuel tax increase, infrastructure improvements, and reforms to sex crime laws.[293]
2012
- See also: Dates of 2012 state legislative sessions
In 2012, the Legislature was in session from February 13 through March 9.
2011
- See also: Dates of 2011 state legislative sessions
In 2011, the Legislature was in regular session from January 11 through March 3. [294] The 45 calendar days that the Wyoming Legislature was in session during 2011 is tied with Utah, New Mexico, and Arkansas for the shortest legislative session in the country.[295]
2010
- See also: Dates of 2010 state legislative sessions
In 2010, the Legislature convened for its biennial budget session, which lasted from February 8 to March 5.[296]
Transparency
The Sunlight Foundation released an "Open Legislative Data Report Card" in March 2013. Wyoming was given a grade of C in the report. The report card evaluated how adequate, complete and accessible legislative data is to the general public. A total of 10 states received an A -- Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.[297]
References
- ↑ Alabama Legislature web page
- ↑ Senate Rule 36
- ↑ Anchorage Daily News, "Oil taxes the top agenda for next legislature," January 13, 2013
- ↑ ktuu.com, "Alaska Legislative Session Adjourns", April 15, 2013
- ↑ StateScape, Session schedules, accessed April 30, 2012
- ↑ Anchorage Daily News, "Lingering issues to test Legislature," January 16, 2012
- ↑ Juneau Empire, "Operating budget agreement helps clear way to end of session," May 4, 2011.
- ↑ StateScape.com, Session Updates, accessed June 28, 2011
- ↑ Anchorage Daily News, "House votes down bill to save coastal management program," June 28, 2011.
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Cronkite News, "Brewer, top legislators: Education, businesses priorities for session," January 11, 2013
- ↑ StateScape, Session schedules, accessed April 30, 2012
- ↑ Timesunion.com, Ariz. Legislature ends session after all-nighter, 20 April 2011
- ↑ KTAR.com, Arizona governor calls special session on economy, 14 Feb. 2011
- ↑ Bloomberg Businessweek, Ariz. Gov won't seek session without bill backing, June 15, 2011
- ↑ Stateline.org, States balance budgets with cuts, not taxes, June 15, 2011
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Arkansas House website
- ↑ arkansasbusiness.com, "Sine Die: Arkansas Lawmakers Formally End Legislative Session," May 17, 2013
- ↑ Arkansas online, " Legislative panel rejects pay rise for elected officials," January 16, 2013
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ San Francisco Chronicle, "Calif. Democrats ponder their new power," December 2, 2012
- ↑ California Legislature, accessed June 16, 2011
- ↑ Session dates for California legislature, 2010
- ↑ Schwarzenegger, Arnold (July 28, 2010) "Gov. Schwarzenegger Declares State of Emergency, Issues Executive Order to Impose Furloughs Due to Cash Crisis Caused By Budget Impasse" Office of the Governor. Retrieved August 24, 2010
- ↑ Schwarzenegger, Arnold. (July 28, 2010) "Executive Order S-12-10" Office of the Governor. Retrieved August 24, 2010.
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ kdvr.com, "Colorado’s historic 2013 legislative session in review," May 10, 2013
- ↑ Pueblo Chieftain, "Civil Union supporters rally prior to special session," May 14, 2012
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Session Scheduling Rules website and Connecticut Constitution, Article III, Section 2
- ↑ ctmirror.org, "Winners and Losers from the 2013 legislative session", June 6, 2013
- ↑ StateScape, State Legislative Snapshot, accessed June 30, 2011
- ↑ Stateline, "Connecticut governor, lawmakers agree to package of tax hikes," April 21, 2011.
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Beaumont Enterprise, "Budget, guns among issues facing Del. lawmakers," January 8, 2013
- ↑ Delaware First Media, "Legislators begin to form 2012 agenda," January 8, 2012
- ↑ Office of the Governor of Delaware, "Markell Thanks Legislature for Overwhelming Votes of Support for Employee Pension and Health Care Reform – Changes Will Save Taxpayers over $480M over 15 years," April 14, 2011.
- ↑ Stateline, "States overhaul pensions but pass on 401(k)-style plans," June 21, 2011.
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ yahoo.com, "Florida legislature passes bill restricting drone use," April 17, 2013
- ↑ boardroombrief.com, "Florida Legislature – 2013 session overview," May 17, 2013
- ↑ Stateline.org, States balance budgets with cuts, not taxes, June 15, 2011
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Georgia Constitution, Article III, Section 4
- ↑ onlineathens.com, "Some win, some lose in Georgia legislative session", May 30, 2013
- ↑ Georgia General Assembly
- ↑ StateScape, Session updates, Aug. 12, 2011
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Hawaii News Now, " Lawmakers set stage for legislative session," January 15, 2013
- ↑ Hawaii Reporter, "Hawaii State Senate Majority Caucus Sets its Priorities for the 2012 Legislative Session," January 17, 2012
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Idaho Statesman, "Otter facing battles within GOP as Legislature convenes," January 7, 2013
- ↑ Times News Magic Valley, "See What the Idaho Legislature's Toughest Issues Are This Session," January 9, 2012
- ↑ Idaho Legislature 2011 Session Dates
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Chicago Sun-Times, "Lame-duck session ends with no pension reform," January 8, 2013
- ↑ mymoinfo.com, "MAY 31, 2013 ILLINOIS LEGISLATORS PASS OIL FRACKING BILL", May 31, 2013
- ↑ [http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2013/06/01/illinois-passes-bill-to-allow-concealed-firearms-last-us-state-to-have-such-ban/ foxnews.com, " Illinois passes bill to allow concealed firearms; last U.S. state to have such a ban", June 1, 2013]
- ↑ npr.org, "Will Ill. Legalize Gay Marriage Before Legislature Adjourns?", May 30, 2013
- ↑ ABC.com, General Assembly to hold special session next week, June 15, 2011
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ IN Legislature FAQ
- ↑ Senate Rule 42
- ↑ House Rule PART VIII.B.
- ↑ Courier Press, "Legislative preview: $1.2 billion extra will go fast," January 6, 2013
- ↑ 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
- ↑ Stateline.org, States balance budgets with cuts, not taxes, June 15, 2011
- ↑ 70.0 70.1 70.2 Stateline, Clerical error eliminates Indiana's largest state agency, July 11, 2011
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Senate Rule 27 and House Rule 29
- ↑ KWWL, "Iowa Legislature begins 2013 session," January 14, 2013
- ↑ RadioIowa, Property tax reduction still holding up close of legislature, June 15, 2011
- ↑ 75.0 75.1 DesMoinesRegister.com, Iowa ends fiscal year with better-than-expected revenues, July 14, 2011
- ↑ 76.0 76.1 Forbes.com, "Iowa lawmakers agree on local school funding," June 29, 2011.
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Kansas Joint Rule 4(i)
- ↑ Lawrence Journal World, "Key issues expected during the 2013 legislative session," January 13, 2013
- ↑ Kansas City Star, "Republican infighting forces Kansas Legislature to extend session," May 12, 2012
- ↑ Topeka Capital Journal, "Legislative session to start Monday," January 8, 2012
- ↑ Stateline.org, States balance budgets with cuts, not taxes, June 15, 2011
- ↑ Kansas City Star, "Kansas Education Board wants state’s school funding restored," July 17, 2011.
- ↑ 2010 session dates for Kansas Legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ The Legislative Department, Kentucky Constitution, Section 36 and Kentucky legislature home page
- ↑ Senate Rule 51 and House Rule 51
- ↑ Kentucky.com, "Lawmakers start Ky. session aiming for cooperation," January 8, 2013
- ↑ WHAS11.com, Legislative session set to end on Wednesday, 8 March 2011
- ↑ Courier-journal.com, Senate President David Williams says Governor Steve Beshear called senators 'fat guys', 10 March 2011
- ↑ "WHAS.com, House lawmakers end special legislative session, 24 March 2011
- ↑ Courier-Journal, "Kentucky Senate adjourns special session," April 6, 2011
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ HR 7.2 and SR 9.1
- ↑ StateNet, Daily Session Summary, 4 March 2011
- ↑ 2010 session dates for Louisiana Legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ WCSH 6, "Maine legislature to reconvene Tuesday," January 5, 2013
- ↑ Legislative Information Office, "LD 1279," Accessed June 4, 2013
- ↑ Portland Press Herald," "Maine House vote kills bill to elect top state officials," June 4, 2013
- ↑ Cite error: Invalid
<ref>tag; no text was provided for refs namedBangor - ↑ Maine State Law and Legislative Reference Library, "Proposed Constitutional Amendments," Accessed June 4, 2013
- ↑ Bangor Daily News, "Maine lawmakers return Wednesday for 2012 session," January 3, 2012
- ↑ Maine.gov, 125th Legislature Session Schedule, June 16, 2011
- ↑ Bangor Daily News, State lawmakers headed home but only for 12 days, June 16, 2011
- ↑ Stateline, "Conservative budget becomes law in all-GOP Maine," June 21, 2011.
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Washington Post, "Maryland legislative session begins with bold predictions," January 9, 2013
- ↑ Maryland General Assembly
- ↑ Yahoo Finance, Md. special session anticipated in week of Oct. 17, July 6, 2011
- ↑ 2010 session dates for Maryland legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Boston.com, "Mass. formally opens legislative session," January 2, 2013
- ↑ Washington Examiner, "Mass. lawmakers to weigh bill on special ed groups," January 4, 2012
- ↑ Wicked Local Roslingdale, "Sen. Rush, Rep. Coppinger announce legislative highlights," August 18, 2012
- ↑ General Court Events
- ↑ 2010 session dates for the Massachusetts legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ South Bend Tribune, "Michigan Legislature starts tamer two-year session today," January 9, 2013
- ↑ Michigan State Legislature Sessions Schedule
- ↑ South Carolina Policy Council "50 State Legislative Session Interactive Map," February 2011
- ↑ Stateline.org, States balance budgets with cuts, not taxes, June 15, 2011
- ↑ Mlive.com, "Gov. Rick Snyder asks Supreme Court to protect new tax on pensions," June 2, 2011.
- ↑ 2010 session dates for Michigan legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ 126.0 126.1 126.2 Minnesota House of Representatives, "Property tax relief, new fourth tier rate highlight conferred tax bill," May 20, 2013
- ↑ Wall Street Journal, "States' Rift on Taxes Widens," May 23, 2013
- ↑ Slate.com, "Minnesota Shutdown To End Within Days," July 15, 2011.
- ↑ Minneapolis Star-Tribune, "138 legislators are collecting paychecks during shutdown," July 10, 2011.
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Sun Herald, "Mississippi legislative session sets off at saunter, not trot," January 8, 2013
- ↑ StateScape, Session schedules, accessed April 30, 2012
- ↑ Mississippi State Legislature
- ↑ 2010 session dates for Mississippi Legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Cite error: Invalid
<ref>tag; no text was provided for refs namedIII20 - ↑ Missouri Constitution,"Article III, Section 20(a)," accessed June 5, 2012
- ↑ Missouri Constitution,"Article III, Section 20(b)," accessed June 5, 2012
- ↑ Senate Rule 44 and House Rule "Bills - Pre-Filing"
- ↑ St. Louis Post-Dispatch, "Business issues at top of Republican legislative leaders' agenda in Missouri," January 5, 2013
- ↑ National Conference of State Legislators,"2011 Legislator Session Calendar," accessed June 5, 2012
- ↑ The Associated Press,"Mo. Legislature officially ends its 2012 session," May 30 2012
- ↑ St. Louis Beacon, "Missouri legislature opens, with last session's issues at top of agenda," January 4, 2012
- ↑ St. Louis Public Radio,"2012 Missouri legislative session ends," May 19, 2012
- ↑ 2011 Legislative Sessions Calendar, NCSL
- ↑ STLtoday.com, Missouri Senate puts hold on economic development bill, Sept. 9, 2011
- ↑ The Missouri Budget Project, "FY 2012 Budget Approved with Additional Spending Reductions," June 24, 2011.
- ↑ 2010 session dates for Missouri House
- ↑ 2010 session dates for Missouri Senate
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Billings Gazette, " Legislature again prepare to debate divisive issues," January 6, 2013
- ↑ Montana Legislature
- ↑ Session information for Montana Legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Sioux City Journal, " Big Decisions Ahead," January 9, 2013
- ↑ Lincoln Journal Star, "As session begins, child welfare reform a priority," January 3, 2012
- ↑ NebraskaLegislature.gov, 2011 legislative session
- ↑ 2010 session dates for Nebraska Senate
- ↑ The Republic, "Nevada Legislature convenes Monday; taxes, guns, Medicaid will be big issues facing lawmakers," February 2, 2013
- ↑ Las Vegas Sun, "Nev. Legislature convenes Monday with uncertainty," February 2, 2013
- ↑ 2011 Legislative Sessions Calendar, NCSL
- ↑ Regular session dates for Nevada Legislature
- ↑ 2010 special session dates for Nevada Legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Sentinel Source, "After a shake-up, N.H. legislators have new issues to tackle.," January 4, 2013
- ↑ Concord Monitor, "House GOP: Jobs the focus," January 4, 2012
- ↑ 2011 Legislative Sessions Calendar, NCSL
- ↑ Seacoastonline.com, "Workers grill Sen. Bradley on N.H. pension reform," May 18, 2011.
- ↑ Stateline.org, "States overhaul pensions but pass on 401(k)-style plans," June 21, 2011.
- ↑ 2010 session dates for New Hampshire legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Wall Street Journal, "Sandy Sets New Agenda for Christie ," January 6, 2013
- ↑ 2011 Legislative Sessions Calendar, NCSL
- ↑ 2010 session dates for New Jersey Legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ ABQ Journal, "Legislature: New Members, Old Issues," January 13, 2013
- ↑ 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
- ↑ 2011 Legislative Sessions Calendar, NCSL
- ↑ KRQE.com, Special session agenda getting longer, July 18, 2011
- ↑ South Carolina Policy Council "50 State Legislative Session Interactive Map," February 2011
- ↑ 2010 session dates for New Mexico Legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Spokesman Review, "NY legislative leaders buckle down on gun controls," January 9, 2013
- ↑ Seattle PI, "NY seals 1st state gun laws since Newtown massacre," January 15, 2013
- ↑ Poughkeepsie Journal, "Divisive issues to test Cuomo's popularity in 2nd year," January 9, 2012
- ↑ 2011 Legislative Sessions Calendar, NCSL
- ↑ 2010 session dates for New York Legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ N.C. Gen. Stat. 120-11.1
- ↑ WRAL, "Ceremony marks opening of legislative session," January 9, 2013
- ↑ 2011 Legislative Sessions Calendar, NCSL
- ↑ 193.0 193.1 Newsobserver.com, NC lawmakers leave town after new maps, overrides, July 28, 2011
- ↑ 2010 session dates for North Carolina legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ NewsOK, "Oil issues to dominate ND legislative session," January 6, 2013
- ↑ North Dakota Legislative Assembly information
- ↑ The Bismarck Tribune, N.D. House leader: Special session starts Nov. 7, Sept.15, 2011
- ↑ PlainsDaily, "ND Dems Disappointed With No Chairmanship Assignments," May 25, 2011
- ↑ Session information for North Dakota legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ The Columbus Dispatch, "Ohio Senate’s new leader brings aggressive style," January 6, 2013
- ↑ 2011 Legislative Sessions Calendar, NCSL
- ↑ 2010 session dates for Ohio legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Muskogee Phoenix, "State House Republicans unveil 2013 legislative agenda," February 1, 2013
- ↑ 2011 Legislative Sessions Calendar, NCSL
- ↑ 2010 session dates for Oklahoma legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Legislator faq
- ↑ Statesman Journal, "Immigration issues back in spotlight at Oregon Legislature," January 27, 2013
- ↑ Daily Tidings, "Immigration issues on agenda for Ore. Legislature," February 1, 2013
- ↑ 2011 Legislative Sessions Calendar, NCSL
- ↑ 2010 session dates for Oregon Legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Post-Gazette, "Pennsylvania lawmakers start settling in," January 2, 2013
- ↑ 2011 Legislative Sessions Calendar, NCSL
- ↑ 2010 session dates for Pennsylvania legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Coventry Patch, "This week at the General assembly," January 6, 2013
- ↑ Boston.com, "Issues to watch in 2012 RI session," January 2, 2012
- ↑ Projo.com, R.I. lawmakers pass flurry of bills, recess until October, July 1, 2011
- ↑ 2010 session dates for the Rhode Island Legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ WJBF, "South Carolina Lawmakers Start Legislative Session Vowing To Protect Your Information And Improve Roads," January 8, 2013
- ↑ The State, "Legislative key issues," January 8, 2012
- ↑ 2011 Legislative Sessions Calendar, NCSL
- ↑ The State, Haley tells court she has right to call special session, 6 June 2011
- ↑ Wltx.com, SC Supreme Court Rules Against Nikki Haley's Extra Session, June 6, 2011
- ↑ TheSunNews.com, The Carolinas | S.C. House to have special session in June, 6 May 2011
- ↑ The Island Packet, S.C. Senate OKs new congressional districted anchored in Beaufort County, June 29, 2011
- ↑ 2010 session dates for South Carolina legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ KTIV, "UPDATE: SD Governor asks lawmakers to revamp criminal justice system," January 8, 2013
- ↑ 2011 SD Legislative Calendar
- ↑ 2010 session dates for South Dakota Legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Commercial Appeal, "Guns, wine, vouchers again in Tennessee legislature," January 5, 2013
- ↑ The Tennessean, "TN lawmakers gear up for fast session, re-election," January 8, 2012
- ↑ 2011 Legislative Sessions Calendar, NCSL
- ↑ 2010 session dates for Tennessee legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Tex. Govt. Code 3.A.301.A001
- ↑ kten.com, "Texas Lawmakers To Tackle Redistricting In Special Session," May 29, 2013
- ↑ Star-Telegram, "As lawmakers return to Austin this week, a heap of work awaits," January 6, 2013
- ↑ 2011 Legislative Sessions Calendar, NCSL
- ↑ The Texas Tribune, "The Official Agenda for a New Session", May 30, 2011
- ↑ 2010 session dates for Texas legislature
- ↑ 2009 Legislative Sessions Calendar, NCSL
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ FOX 13, "Adoption and alcohol likely topics for Utah legislative session," January 21, 2013
- ↑ Salt Lake Tribune, "Call them the Swallow Reforms," January 24, 2013
- ↑ Salt Lake Tribune, "Top issues to watch in the upcoming Utah Legislature," January 21, 2012
- ↑ 2011 Legislative Sessions Calendar, NCSL
- ↑ StateScape, Session Updates, July 22, 2011
- ↑ ABC4.com, Governor calls Redistricting Special Session, Aug. 31, 2011
- ↑ South Carolina Policy Council "50 State Legislative Session Interactive Map," February 2011
- ↑ 2010 session dates for Utah Legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Boston.com, "2013 Vt. legislative session to get under way," January 6, 2013
- ↑ 2011 Legislative Sessions Calendar, NCSL
- ↑ 2010 session dates for Vermont Legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ WRIC, "Virginia General Assembly To Convene For 2013 Session," January 9, 2013
- ↑ StateScape, Session schedules, accessed April 30, 2012
- ↑ Virginia General Assembly
- ↑ Post Local, Va. assembly to vote Friday on Supreme Court, appeals judges, July 29, 2011
- ↑ 2010 session dates for Virginia legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ WA Legislature website
- ↑ The Spokesman Review, "Budget remains pressing issue in new legislative session," January 13, 2013
- ↑ 2011 Legislative Sessions Calendar, NCSL
- ↑ 2010 session convening dates for Washington legislature
- ↑ 2010 session adjourning dates for Washington legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Open Records, "The Washington state legislature…open? Not so much", May 18, 2009
- ↑ Seattle Times, "Will Legislature open its own records?", May 11, 2009
- ↑ State Journal, "Soft drinks in schools to be considered by WV Legislature," January 8, 2013
- ↑ West Virginia Legislature
- ↑ WTRF, Tomblin Calls Special Session for Redistricting, July 26, 2011
- ↑ The Republic, Tomblin: special session to begin Thurs to remedy House redistricting plan, Aug. 12, 2011
- ↑ 2010 session convenes dates for West Virginia Legislature
- ↑ 2010 session adjourns dates for West Virginia Legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Wisconsin State Journal, "With state bitterly divided, Walker promises more moderate agenda," January 7, 2013
- ↑ 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
- ↑ Wisconsin.gov, State of Wisconsin Legislative Reference Bureau, accessed 7 March 2011
- ↑ Wisconsin Legislative Reference Bureau, Wisconsin Legislative Spotlight, accessed July 1, 2011
- ↑ 2010 session dates for Wisconsin legislature
- ↑ Explanation of Wisconsin legislative floor-periods
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
- ↑ Cody Enterprise, "Wyoming Legislature set for ‘wild ride’," January 2, 2013
- ↑ 2011 Legislative Sessions Calendar, NCSL
- ↑ South Carolina Policy Council "50 State Legislative Session Interactive Map," February 2011
- ↑ 2010 session dates for Wyoming Legislature
- ↑ Sunlight Foundation Ten Principles for Opening Up Government Information, accessed June 16, 2013
