As the 2012 General Assembly Session begins on January 9, several key issues are going to be addressed, with the State Appropriations Budget being the most critical. Our State revenues are gradually improving but we have many debt obligation to address, like the unemployment fund. Tax reform carried over from the last session will also be analyzed again. Other key issues are: health care transformation, transportation initiatives, revitalization of job creation, and economic development with the Port of Savannah leading the way.  I look forward to many invigorating discussions as we explore options in maintaining our great State as a leader in the Nation.