Montgomery, AL – Alabama legislators have begun the 2012 regular session.
The session officially began just after noon Tuesday when Lt. Gov. Kay Ivey gaveled the Senate into session. A few minutes later, Speaker Mike Hubbard of Auburn officially started the session in the House.
Legislators face a full agenda during the session. Issues include giving Alabama's toughest in the nation immigration law a tune up and balancing the budgets in what promises to be a difficult budget year.
The session is expected to last until mid-May. The Legislature must complete its work in 30 meeting days within 110 calendar days.
Gov. Robert Bentley will outline his priorities for the session in his ``State of the State'' address at 6:30 p.m. in a joint session in the old House chamber at the Capitol.
(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)