Senator Tommy Williams of the Woodlands talks to reporters at a press conference on Tuesday about the importance of spending cuts. He is joined by (L-to-R) Representative Bill Callegari, Representative Warren Chisum, Senator Florence Shapiro and Representative John Otto.

Senators (L-to-R) Robert Deuell, Carlos Uresti, Jeff Wentworth, Joan Huffman, Steve Ogden, Jane Nelson, Brian Birdwell and Dan Patrick take the oath of office on the opening day of the 82nd Legislature. Senators who were up for election last November take a new oath of office as a matter of tradition.

Lt. Governor David Dewhurst addresses the crowd following his inauguration to a third term.

Austin Senator Kirk Watson talks with Austin American-Statesman reporter Mike Ward before the Senate votes on rules to start the 82nd Session.

Governor Rick Perry said during his inaugural address that the state can balance its budget without raising taxes.