2013 Session Of Alabama Legislature Begins

Alabama Public Radio | By The Associated Press

Published February 5, 2013 at 5:03 PM CST

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An Alabama legislative committee has voted to ban abortion after a fetal heartbeat is detected -- something that can happen as early as six weeks into a pregnancy.

Trance Mist

The Alabama Legislature's 2013 regular session has started.

Lt. Gov. Kay Ivey started the session in the Senate at noon. Speaker Mike Hubbard gaveled the House into session at 12:10 p.m.

The session will last until mid-May. Lawmakers must complete the session in 30 meeting days during 105 calendar days.

Major issue facing lawmakers will be balancing the General Fund and education budgets in a year when funds are expected to be tight.

Gov. Robert Bentley will address a joint session of the Legislate in the old House chamber at the Alabama Capitol Tuesday night.