Now that the holidays are a pleasant memory, the General Assembly is turning its attention to the quickly approaching opening of the 2006 regular legislative session.

This year, the legislative session will begin on Wednesday, February 8 th and end on Wednesday, May 3 rd . As 2006 is an even-numbered year - and a legislative election year - the General Assembly will meet for only three months and, due to the rather compressed time frame of these so-called short sessions, must comply with the rules set by both the State Constitution and the legislature's own rules.

For example, this year individual legislators may propose only bills that relate to budgetary, revenue or financial matters. However, legislative committees may introduce bills on any subject. And, legislative leaders may introduce bills and resolutions that are certified as emergencies by the Speaker of the House and the President Pro Tempore of the Senate.

In an effort to shorten legislative time, the Connecticut Constitution restricts sessions in even numbered years to achieve necessary adjustments to the previously adopted two-year state budget. Committee Chairmen of the various committees may take up other matters of urgent interest, however.

As the Co-Chairman of the Program Review and Investigations Committee, I will be introducing bills on several subjects that are not necessarily specific to the state budget. The PRI Committee has been studying several state programs and will be offering proposals to amend policy on the tax system, improve the Soldiers and Sailors Fund, even the playing field in binding arbitration rules, bring efficiency to the probate court system, and review the effectiveness of mandatory minimum sentencing guidelines and other areas of government.

As an individual legislator, this year I can only propose legislation that directly affects state revenues. Proposals to change the pattern of state spending must include adjustments to the adopted state budget without increasing the bottom line. New state spending can only be approved if new funding is identified.

The region's legislators from Southeastern Connecticut are a cohesive group and a strong block of votes for certain proposals that assist our entire region. We will be continuing to meet to develop a list of bills that we will submit together. We are eager to bring transportation improvements, economic diversification programs and affordable housing ideas to our part of the state. Watch for news of our proposals in the coming weeks.

Each year, it amazes me how quickly time flies when the General Assembly is in session - probably because there is so much to do and seemingly never enough time to finish everything we hope to accomplish. Please check this column over the next few weeks for information about what to expect during the regular 2006 Legislative Session. Once session opens on February 8 th , I'll keep you informed about what we are doing here in Hartford .

Meanwhile, as always, I am happy to answer your questions and respond to your concerns about the issues important to our state. I can be reached at the Capitol at 1-800-842-1421 or you can send me an e-mail at Catherine.Cook@cga.ct.gov .