Tomorrow marks the start of the 2013 legislative session in Iowa. New Representative Greg Heartsill and Senator Amy Sinclair will both be sworn in at the Capital and begin their terms. Both have told KNIA/KRLS that there’s been a little bit of a learning curve, but they’re ready to get started and see how they can serve their district. They plan on having monthly stops in Knoxville to discuss issues with the public; they also will be in contact with KNIA/KRLS on a regular basis to discuss what’s going on in Des Moines.

House Representative Guy Vander Linden says that one of his early focuses this session will be on the DOT opposition to granting licenses to illegal immigrants granted deferred action status through the Dream Act. He says that he thinks there will be wide support for legislation to allow the licenses, in part because of the way the DOT altered their rules to block the licenses. State Senator Ken Roozenboom says his big focus will be on the economy this session, and making sure that Iowans are able to find jobs. KNIA/KRLS will be keeping in touch with our legislators throughout the session in our Let’s Talk Programs.