On Wednesday, the Virginia General Assembly convened at the state capital, just as it has for the last 394 years.

For the next 30 to 60 days, 40 senators and 100 delegates will consider thousands of pieces of legislation, including amendments to the state budget that was enacted in 2012.

Several bills have been introduced by Del. Rick Morris, R- Carrollton, that will directly impact Western Tidewater. One would extend the current excise tax on peanuts grown and sold in Virginia, the proceeds from which would be used to promote the sale and use of peanut products.

Another would add the City of Franklin to the Port of Virginia Economic and Infrastructure Development Zone, which would allow qualifying businesses who locate or expand in the city to apply for grants based on job creation.

Another would create the Efficiency Evaluation Fund, which would provide matching dollars for localities to hire private consultants for finding more efficient ways to operate.

All of these are fairly straightforward, commonsense bills that will likely find easy passage.

Considering the contentious and controversial issues the Assembly will face this session — think transportation and education and social issues and budget shortfalls — it’s likely that legislators will be pleased with every opportunity that presents itself for them to find common ground.