The Texas Legislature kicks off its 30-day special session today at noon in Austin, with Governor Greg Abbott setting an ambitious slate of 18 agenda items - from ramping up Hill Country flood warnings and recovery efforts, to redrawing congressional maps, eliminating the STAAR exam, and tightening regulations on hemp-derived THC products.
Democrats are already weighing their options - some pushing symbolic pushback like quorum-busting to stall redistricting efforts aimed at solidifying GOP gains, while flood-relief measures draw more bipartisan support.
Meanwhile, education advocates say scrapping STAAR and replacing it with new assessments is overdue, pointing to House Bill 92’s inclusion in the special session.
With just a month to tackle everything from property tax cuts and abortion pill restrictions, to human trafficking protections and courtroom reforms, observers say it’ll be a sprint - and a showdown over priorities.
Governor Abbott’s 18 agenda items for the July 2025 special legislative session:
Flood response and infrastructure – Improve warning systems and disaster response in flood-prone areas.
Redistricting – Redraw congressional and legislative maps to reflect recent population changes.
Eliminate the STAAR test – Replace it with alternative assessment methods under House Bill 92.
School choice expansion – Broaden eligibility for school voucher programs.
Property tax relief – Propose additional cuts or caps for homeowners.
Regulation of hemp and THC products – Crack down on unregulated THC levels in consumables.
Border security – Increase funding and legal tools for Operation Lone Star and state-level enforcement.
Abortion pill restrictions – Limit access to mifepristone and similar medications.
Prohibit gender-affirming care for minors – Expand laws restricting treatment for transgender youth.
Public safety grants – Provide funds to law enforcement and first responders.
Human trafficking prevention – Strengthen penalties and victim support services.
Judicial reform – Propose changes to judicial selection and oversight.
Bail reform – Adjust pretrial detention policies and eligibility for bail.
Parental rights in education – Increase transparency and parental input in school curriculum.
DEI restrictions – Prohibit diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in public institutions.
Election integrity – Tighten voting laws, including mail-in ballot rules and ID requirements.
ESG investment restrictions – Limit state investments based on environmental or social factors.
Child online safety – Regulate social media use and data collection from minors.