Next week starts the 2010 Georgia Legislative session, and a few items will quickly emerge as the hot topics. Last year we saw the fall of top leadership (mainly that of House Speaker Glenn Richardson, though the GOP party as a whole took a hit), We asked some folks their thoughts on the top issues at the Gold Dome this legislative session.

Michelle G. - I would think the budget but I also hope ethics. Ridiculous the whole scandal with one of the main guys up there, and a lobbyist. That's the most disturbing thing of all - lawmakers getting it on with lobbyists. Makes the whole process of bill passage, etc., seem just a formality when a lot of the details were already pounded out in the bedroom.

John R. - We need a balanced budget, and we need our reps to come up with answers to health care here in the state, like better funding for programs that are already there. I know the budget is tight but it seems so many of the solutions are just shortsighted, and don't look down the road.

Joey F. - There's a session starting soon?

Enid S. - While I don't think this falls under a 'top issue,' I'd really like to see the lobby legions of the big guys like Georgia Power, etc., felled by some of the smaller guys, the ones that actually represent the special interest groups that represent us individuals that aren't owners of massive companies. Not sure how that could happen, but I don't really feel that anyone cares what someone like me, a 25-year-old low-income, uninsured, non-mother, non-homeowner, cares about, even though I try hard to be a part of solutions in Atlanta and the state. We all need a voice! Not just those who are lucky enough to foot the tab for fancy dinners and tickets to sporting events.

Liz B. - I hope the budget, and on foreclosure. My street is nothing but a death march of for-sale, bank-owned signs.

Tommy K. - Ethics, anyone?

Kristen G. - Equal rights for all of us, including gays and immigrants. Not holding my breath, though, that it'd even make it as a low priority. I'm sure it is no priority at all.

Jennifer G. - The budget!! Don't just cut -- really plan it out.

Dania S. - Immigrant issues have to be at the forefront, as should issues with Grady (which can be the same at times). We need some sort of reform. Really, we need "attitude" reform, but I don't see that happening anytime soon. Right now, all we can hope for is some legislation that will force everyone to at least act like all are equal.

Steve M. - We need ethics reform, first and foremost. How can we trust any sort of legislation knowing there may have been a bedroom deal driving it through.