AUSTIN (Talk1370.com) -- Texas lawmakers will be back at work beginning next week, with Gov. Greg Abbott officially calling the third special session of the 88th Legislature Thursday afternoon.
Abbott's proclamation includes four key areas for lawmakers to work on: legislation providing education savings accounts for Texas schoolchildren, border security issues, public safety issues in the Colony Ridge development in Liberty County, and a prohibition on COVID-19 vaccine mandates by private employers.
The 30-day special session will begin at 1 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 9.
"I am bringing the Texas Legislature back for Special Session #3 to continue building on the achievements we accomplished during the 88th Regular Legislative Session and two special sessions this summer," Abbott said in a release. "Together, we will chart a brighter future for all Texas children by empowering parents to choose the best education option for their child."
Abbott has long indicated a third special session would follow the impeachment trial of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, which wrapped up last month in an acquittal of the charges facing him. Last week, he notified Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and House Speaker Dade Phelan that a special session would begin next week.
"Texas will also pass laws to mirror the federal immigration laws President Joe Biden refuses to enforce that will reduce illegal immigration and enhance the safety of Texans," Abbott continued. "For the first time ever, Texas will subject people to arrest for illegal entry into our state from a foreign nation. All licensed law enforcement officers in Texas will be authorized to arrest or remove any person who illegally enters the State, with penalties up to 20 years in prison for refusing to comply with removal."
"Additionally, we must protect the freedom of Texans from forced COVID-19 vaccinations. I look forward to working with my partners in the Legislature to address these critical issues."
Under the Texas Constitution, Abbott has the sole power to call the Legislature back for a special session, and to specify what topics lawmakers can address.
