Each lawmaker has their own list of priorities as they head into each legislative session.

District 19 State Representative Ralph Watts says one of the things he wants to see addressed this year is the issue of civil asset forfeitures.  He says it is an issue that has come up the last couple of years and he thinks something needs to be done.

“The issue is the ability of law enforcement to seize property, really without any kind of basis or due cause.  They aren’t restricted like I would like to see it and I think there are some things we need to do there in forfeiture.”

Another issue Watts says he’s focused on this year, besides the budget, is that of the American Laws for American Courts bill that has been brought up the last several sessions.  He says he feels it’s becoming more and more necessary as immigrants are coming into the country and bringing their customs with them.