BAKERSFIELD, Calif. - A new session began today at the state-house in Sacramento.

With supermajorities in both houses and a governor of the same party the democrats can raise taxes, pass emergency legislation and put constitutional amendments on the ballot all without any support from republicans.

Democrats are expected to take up a lengthy agenda this session including environmental laws, education funding, and gun control and preparing the state for Obamacare.

It’s the largest freshman class in the statehouse since 1966.

Governor Jerry Brown will give lawmakers a better idea of his priorities when he releases his proposed budget later this week.

State senator Michael Rubio of Bakersfield says state Democrats no longer have any excuses for not taking action.

Meanwhile, state house Republicans say they will take time to figure out what their role will be.