Washington Gov. Christine Gregoire’s State of the State address wasn’t exactly visionary, nor was it brimming with details. But that’s not all bad. In an off-budget year when goals are necessarily modest, it might help tamp down expectations for big changes.

The state’s $1.4 billion surplus is tantalizing to lawmakers who have had to suppress their spending impulses during the state’s recession. But analysts see the state slipping back into the red next year, so preserving some of the excess money is prudent.

It’s trendy – and sometimes deceptive – to call spending an investment, but an overdue infusion for the state’s pension system would be wise because it would ward off more expensive contributions down the road.

Targeted spending on education and transportation would also be smart. Though last year’s gas tax initiative was worthwhile, the East Side’s transportation needs could use more attention.

There are other issues that aren’t particularly expensive but merit consideration this legislative session. Among them:

“The human rights ordinance. The long-sought-after measure to forbid discrimination statewide based on sexual orientation should pass this year. There’s no excuse.

“Medical malpractice/patient safety. Voters shot down the noisy, expensive campaigns conducted by the medical community and trial lawyers. However, there was common ground on some issues, and the Legislature should pursue that.

“Education standards. It’s fine to tweak the implementation of the Washington Assessment of Student Learning, but lawmakers should not abandon the goal of raising standards. Some students will need alternatives to demonstrate achievement and the state may need to do more to help struggling students, but the WASL should remain a graduation requirement.

“Early learning. The state should pursue strategies for preparing more students before they reach first grade. Research shows that this will pay huge dividends for society in the long run.

“Protecting children. The state must do more to protect children from abuse and neglect. Similarly, it needs more effective strategies to deal with sex offenders.

“Biofuels. It looks like the state will be involved in jump-starting the production of this alternative fuel source. This could be a boon to farmers in Eastern Washington, who could plant the necessary canola, mustard and soybeans. But the state needs to make sure it doesn’t create a program that needs a permanent subsidy.

The Legislature got off to a roaring start with the rapid adoption of more heating assistance money for those struggling to pay their power bills. We hope that’s a harbinger for an effective, productive session.