The economy. Healthcare. National defense.

These are among the issues expected to dominate the 111th Congress, which convenes today.

But local issues — from getting a ship named after Fort Worth to ensuring that a new Veterans Affairs clinic in Fort Worth opens in 2010 — will have their own time and place, legislators say.

"I hope that we all work together," said Rep. Kay Granger, R-Fort Worth.

Here’s a look at what legislators plan to push:

Granger: She continues to work behind the scenes to have a Navy vessel named for the city of Fort Worth. Her top priority remains getting annual funding for the Trinity River Vision. She will also keep an eye on military construction and healthcare. As soon as today, she will learn the subcommittee for which she will be the ranking member, which will help determine her focus.

Rep. Michael Burgess, R-Lewisville: His priorities are healthcare, ensuring access to treatment and that children are receiving medical coverage through the state Children’s Health Insurance Program, and securing money to unclog local roadways. Infant mortality remains a key concern of Burgess’, but the obstetrician said he will keep working with local leaders — rather than filing a bill — to reduce the numbers. "It’s a huge job," he said.

Rep. Joe Barton, R-Arlington: Barton, who is strongly opposed to government-run healthcare, said he wants to reduce healthcare costs and boost competition in the market by "putting consumers in the driver’s seat." He also said that American energy sources should be increased and that he hopes Congress will boost oversight of how tax dollars, particularly those used in the bailout plan, are spent. And, while it is not the most pressing issue, he would like to see the BCS bowl system scrapped and a new system created "that doesn’t cheat schools out of the chance to compete for a college football national championship."

Rep. Chet Edwards, D-Waco: Keeping the new Fort Worth VA clinic on track for a 2010 opening, expanding CHIP, improving the economy, and creating jobs in Texas through tax cuts and federal investment in transportation and infrastructure are his priorities. "I believe the American people want to see this Congress work together to pass bipartisan legislation that moves our state and nation forward and puts the needs of people above partisan politics," said Edwards, whose district stretches from suburbs south of Fort Worth to east of College Station.

Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison: She plans to focus on getting federal money to help with Hurricane Ike recovery and Texas projects in the stimulus and appropriations bills, protecting the state’s federal highways from tolling and finding relief for the income tax "penalty" for married couples. The Republican also hopes to secure funding for veterans facilities and military installations in Texas, according to her staff.

Sen. John Cornyn: He said that the economy is his top priority and that he wants to pass legislation such as tax breaks for small businesses and American families to put it "back on the right track." The Republican would also like to see legislation on energy independence, comprehensive immigration reform, health care, education reform, taking care of troops and veterans, and protecting the nation from terrorism.


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