139 More Days for Texas Lawmakers

KXAN.COM

Josh Hinkle

Updated: Jan 8, 2013 5:13 PM

Texas Senate press corps on opening day of 83rd Legislative Session (Josh Hinkle/KXAN)

From Senate staffers fainting during Gov. Rick Perry’s opening address to a clogging team clacking away in support of Rep. Debbie Riddle, the Texas Legislative Session was underway. Day 1 brought crowds of little kids running among the desks in the chambers and protesters slowly lining the hallways.

The governor outlined his hopes for lawmakers, warning against tapping the rainy day fund and overspending after a better-than-expected revenue outlook. No emergency items just yet, but his office says to “stay tuned.”

Perry, Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst and Speaker Joe Straus are holding a joint press conference Wednesday morning. Perhaps we will find out more about potential emergencies items – those bills lawmakers can tackle in the first 60 days of the session.

Next in line – committee assignments and committee leadership. All eyes will be on Dewhurst and Straus during that time, as those decisions will have a direct impact on how this session plays out and who calls the shots.

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