On July 21, at 12:00 PM, Governor Greg Abbott issued a proclamation outlining 18 critical agenda items for the upcoming Special Session. This initiative follows the historic legislation passed during the 89th Regular Legislative Session, which is set to benefit Texans for generations to come. "We delivered on historic legislation that will benefit Texans for generations to come," said Governor Abbott, emphasizing the ongoing need for improvements, especially in light of the recent devastating floods in the Texas Hill Country.
The Governor's agenda includes several significant areas of focus aimed at enhancing Texas's preparedness and response to natural disasters, as well as addressing various social and economic issues. Here’s a detailed look at each item:
Legislation aimed at improving early warning systems and preparedness infrastructure in flood-prone areas across Texas will be prioritized. This initiative is crucial for enhancing public safety and minimizing the impact of flooding.
Strengthening emergency communications and response infrastructure in flood-prone regions will also be a key focus. Effective communication during emergencies is vital for ensuring timely evacuations and resource allocation.
The agenda includes legislation to secure relief funding for recovery efforts following the storms that began in early July 2025. This includes local match funding for jurisdictions eligible for FEMA public assistance.
To enhance natural disaster preparedness, the legislation will evaluate and streamline existing rules and regulations, ensuring that Texas is better equipped to respond to future catastrophes.
There is a proposal to eliminate the STAAR test and replace it with more effective tools for assessing student progress, ensuring accountability within school districts.
The Governor's agenda aims to reduce the property tax burden on Texans and impose spending limits on entities authorized to levy property taxes, providing financial relief to many residents.
New legislation will make it a crime to provide hemp-derived products to individuals under 21 years of age, ensuring the safety and well-being of Texas youth.
A comprehensive regulatory framework for hemp-derived products will be established, focusing on limiting potency and restricting synthetically modified compounds while ensuring lawful agricultural practices are maintained.
Legislation aimed at further protecting unborn children and their mothers from the harms associated with abortion will also be introduced.
Governor Abbott's agenda includes a proposal to prohibit taxpayer-funded lobbying, preventing the use of tax dollars to hire lobbyists or fund lobbying associations.
Similar to Senate Bill No. 1278 from the 89th Legislature, new legislation will protect victims of human trafficking from criminal liability for non-violent acts related to their victimization.
This session will address the protection of law enforcement officers by limiting the public disclosure of unsubstantiated complaints in their personnel files.
Legislation aimed at safeguarding women’s privacy in sex-segregated spaces will be a significant focus, ensuring that women's rights are upheld.
A proposed constitutional amendment will grant the Attorney General the authority to prosecute state election crimes, enhancing the integrity of the electoral process.
In response to constitutional concerns raised by the U.S. Department of Justice, legislation will provide a revised congressional redistricting plan.
Similar to Senate Bill No. 648 from the 89th Legislature, new legislation will bolster protections against title theft and deed fraud, safeguarding property rights for Texans.
The agenda includes provisions that authorize political subdivisions to reduce impact fees for builders implementing water conservation and efficiency measures, promoting sustainable development.
Lastly, legislation will address the operation and administration of the Judicial Department of state government, ensuring effective governance and justice administration.
This Special Session promises to tackle critical issues that affect the lives of Texans, reflecting Governor Abbott's commitment to enhancing the state's resilience in the face of challenges.
