State Senator MARY HODGE: Opening Day 2011

Yesterday was opening day at the General Assembly. I love the first day of session. Everyone is happy to be there, everyone is on best behavior, everyone looks their best, and everyone is optimistic. It's great to be a part of that. It also reminds me of what an honor it is to serve. And for that honor, I thank you.

In the past several years our economy has faltered, we've worked to turn it around and our work has paid off:

* Reports show that our economy is growing and small businesses are making the biggest gains

* Colorado personal income has grown for five straight quarters

* Denver is the #9 city in the nation for finding a new job and the sixth best city for businesses

* Colorado business leaders are optimistic about the future and

* Colorado is ready for an international Knowledge-based Economy.

But, our work isn't finished and we continue to focus on creating an environment that allows every Coloradan the opportunity to bring home a steady paycheck. The Small Business Investment act has been introduced which is meant to create opportunities for small businesses to expand, develop and thrive in Colorado . Under consideration is the Local Jobs Act to create opportunities for local businesses to hire local workers. Stay tuned as these bills are debated.

We also need to encourage businesses to locate here and that means we much make smart investments in education. Governor Hickenlooper has said "Kids are 25% of our population but 100% of our future." As we work to balance a budget with a $1.1 billion short-fall we will put kids first.

I value your input and invite you to join me at Town Hall meetings. Next week we'll be in Commerce City , at the library, on January 18th starting at 6:30 p.m. Then Saturday, the 22nd, 8:30 a.m. we'll be at the Platte Valley Medical Center in Brighton . You can also email me at senmaryhodge@gmail.com or call my office (303) 866-4855.

State Senate proceedings are broadcast live on Comcast Channel 165 or live video is available on the internet at ColoradoChannel.net.

Thank you, again, for this opportunity.