Texas lawmakers returned to the Capitol Monday for the start of a special legislative session, called by Governor Greg Abbott to address several high-profile issues left unresolved during the regular session.
Among the priorities outlined by the governor are school choice legislation, increased funding and policy changes for border security, and proposals regulating bathroom access for transgender Texans in public facilities. These topics have previously sparked sharp political divisions in both chambers.
Under the Texas Constitution, only the governor can call a special session and set its agenda. Abbott’s official proclamation, issued last week, laid out a series of specific items for lawmakers to consider, including “legislation to empower parents and expand education freedom” and “legislation regarding public safety, including border security measures.”
Lawmakers quickly began filing bills Monday related to those issues. Senate committees are expected to begin hearings as early as midweek.
Democratic leaders have criticized the timing and content of the session, saying the governor’s agenda ignores pressing concerns like teacher pay, school funding, and property tax relief. Republican leaders say the session is an opportunity to finish work that stalled amid disagreements earlier this year.
The special session is limited to 30 days.
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