With just two weeks remaining until lawmakers return to Austin, Gov. Greg Abbott has yet to announce what issues will be on the agenda for the upcoming special legislative session, leaving legislators and observers in a holding pattern.
What Is a Special Session?
Unlike regular legislative sessions, which occur every two years for up to 140 days, special sessions can be called by the governor at any time and may last no more than 30 days.
Crucially, lawmakers can only take up the issues that the governor places on the call. Until Abbott releases the official agenda, legislators are unable to file bills, even on widely speculated topics.
What Might Be on the Call?
When Abbott announced the July 21 start date last month, he mentioned a few issues he was considering, including legislation to regulate THC products. That debate was reignited after Abbott vetoed a bill that would have outright banned products like Delta-8 and Delta-9.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick criticized the move, characterizing Abbott’s position as effectively endorsing marijuana legalization.
Abbott has also teased that a ban on taxpayer-funded lobbying—one of the Texas GOP’s priorities—could be on the call. The measure would prohibit local governments from using taxpayer dollars to hire lobbyists who advocate (often against the interests of taxpayers) at the Capitol.
The Republican Party of Texas has released its own wishlist for the special session. Among the items: a ban on taxpayer-funded lobbying, the elimination of property taxes, bail reform, and a ban on abortion-inducing drugs.
Another likely item is redistricting. The Trump administration is reportedly pushing Texas leaders to redraw congressional lines to shore up additional Republican seats ahead of the 2026 election. Abbott has not yet confirmed whether it will be included, though the Texas GOP has also endorsed the idea.
Waiting on Abbott
Until the governor issues his official proclamation, speculation continues, and lawmakers are unable to file legislation. There are also lingering questions over whether House Democrats will remain in Austin for the entirety of the session or attempt to break quorum, as they did during the 2021 special session in an effort to block election integrity legislation.
With the special session scheduled to begin on July 21, all eyes remain on Abbott to see which battles will take center stage at the Capitol.