State Senator Becky Schmitz says the primary focus so far this session has been on dealing with the current economic climate and it's impact on state government. Schmitz says she knows the deepening national recession puts a strain on the budgets of Iowa middle-class families. She says that's why she is wanting to hear constituent suggestions for balancing the state budget without raising taxes. Schmitz asks that comments be sent to becky.schmitz@legis.state.ia.us ^[1].