While the specific issues to be addressed are under review as of press-time, members can expect that each of the 17 bills filed in the past session, but not passed into law, will be refiled. General Counsel Bill Rehrey is reviewing each bill and framing the language in the proper legal manner.

In addition, Association leaders are reviewing other issues that emerged during the last session (some brought forth by members) and will determine whether legislation should be filed. Members should note that the Association's long-held practice of not filing bills on behalf of individual members will be maintained.

Association President Ralph White is pleased to report that work has begun on the special study of the cost-of-living (COLA) base.

In light of the study, the Association will not initially file a bill to raise the base as part of the legislative package to begin the new session. Once the study is complete and we have the necessary cost figures, a bill will be filed based on the results of the report.

Members can expect to find the full details of our 2005-2006 legislative package to be contained in the January issue of the Voice.