State lawmakers leave for Des Moines, talk top state priorities

This weekend wraps up the legislative break for state lawmakers.  They'll be heading to Des Moines for opening gravel and the start of changes to come this year statewide.  Here's a sneak peek at what important issues lawmakers will work on this session.

State lawmakers prepare for another political year in the republican run state capitol.

It's the first time Craig Paulsen will be sworn in as Speaker of the House.

“It's an exciting time there are a lot of opportunities,” said Speaker of the House Craig Paulsen. Republicans will take advantage since they can decide the agenda.  A heated topic during November's election about same-sex marriage and judges' retention is still divisive.

“Let Iowans vote on the definition of marriage.  Iowans picked republicans to be in control and that's exactly what we're going to do,” said Paulsen.

“We're not going to amend the constitution and put discrimination back in the constitution.  I think Iowans really want us focused on other issues,” said State Senator Rob Hogg.

Issues like the state's budget.  Republicans want tax cuts, but Paulsen isn't talking specifics.

“I don't want to identify one over another right now today.  We need to have a good robust discussion on that,” said Paulsen.

But the conversation would be short with democrat State Senator Rob Hogg.

“I'm going to be really reluctant to do a big tax cut because we still have investments for the future we need to make,” said Hogg.

One of those investments is in flood prevention and watershed projects.  It's an issue Hogg says crosses political lines.

“It's affected small towns, big towns, farmers,” said Hogg, “It really affects everyone and there are solutions we can really work on for everyone”

And Paulsen says his party strives to do what's best for Iowans on every issue as well.

“Republicans don't have a monopoly on good ideas so I hope they come to the table just like we hope to,” said Paulsen.

The legislative session starts on Monday and Governor-elect Terry Branstad's inauguration is slated for this Friday.