Grim 2009 for Indiana?

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) - The new year may be a grim one for the state.  "I expect the Governor to reduce services and reduce expendentures," said State Rep. Win Moses.

That's what a lot of officials expect in Indiana this year.

"We are experiencing many of the problems that other states are expierencing, but we are well ahead of a lot of them in our effort to meet financial challenges," said Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry.

Both Representative Win Moses and Mayor Tom Henry say it will be a tight year for the state, but residents still hope for more.

"Bring back some of the jobs that we've lost, because that's killing us," said area resident Pam Nessen.

Education is another concern.

"Everybody is so focused on passing tests that they're not teaching the real basics like we used to, and I think kids need to have a more rounded education," said area resident Cheryl Scott.

While leaders say we should expect less state spending on programs, they believe we could see other changes.

"There will be a proposal to not allow driving while you're on a cell phone. That'll be hotly debated, and a statewide smoking ban will certainly be discussed," said Moses.

At least one of those issues doesn't sit well with Hoosier Pam Nelson.  "A statewide smoking ban? I'd probably end up in Michigan," she said.

Of course, what actually takes place in Indiana in 2009 will be finalized in the legislative session and would then go on to the Governor for his signature.