(KLZA)-- The Nebraska Legislature begins its 2023 session Wednesday.

State Senators say there are some great opportunities along with a chance of gridlock.

As always, tax relief and tax reform will be two of the major topics of debate.

Due to COVID-related stimulus spending, the state is anticipating a $2.3 billion cash reserve by 2025.

Senators will also be influenced by the preferences of a new governor. Jim Pillen takes office Thursday. He campaigned on limiting spending at all levels of government, reforming property taxes and school finance, expanding prison capacity, and restricting abortion.

District 1 State Senator Julie Slama expects restricting abortion and allowing people to carry concealed weapons without a permit will be among the hot button topics for the session.

State senators are also expected to grapple with whether to continue to conduct elections for committee chairs by secret ballot, or switch to open voting.