And they’re off.

The Mississippi Legislature convened today to start the 2017 and lawmakers are scheduled to work in Jackson until April 2.

Like all years, this one promises to be interesting, to say the least.

Issues on the minds of leadership this legislative session include tax reform (the budget-strapped state needs more revenue), education funding (some want to change the formula for schools), and budget cuts (the state can’t afford everything it has).

Other hot-button issues expected to come up include Mississippi’s controversial state flag, which includes the Confederate battle emblem, and how to spend the state’s BP settlement money.

On tax reform, generating more revenue in areas like Internet sales makes complete sense. If a business sells goods in Mississippi, those goods should be taxed just like items are taxed in our brick-and-mortar stores.

As for education funding, we are keeping an open mind to proposals that may emerge but believe that our schools should be a top priority for Mississippi.

Where there’s no room for debate is the state flag. It’s beyond time for Mississippi to change, and step into the 21st century with a state flag that represents all.