Abbott announces start date for 3rd special session

Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced the official start date and time for a 3rd special session Tuesday in a proclamation, outlining five items intended to be the focus for lawmakers. Texas lawmakers will convene at 10 a.m. on September 20.

One item set for discussion is redistricting after the release of the latest census statistics. “The Texas Legislature now has the opportunity to redraw legislative and congressional districts in accordance with the newest census numbers,” Abbott said. The governor added, “In addition to redistricting, there are still issues remaining that are critical to building a stronger and brighter future for all Texans.”

The other four items set for debate include: Providing appropriations from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021; Legislation that would affect trans high school athletes and disallow them from competing in UIL athletic competitions designated for the sex opposite to the one they had at birth; Addressing concerns expressed in the governor’s veto statement and whether or not state or local governments can implement COVID-19 vaccine mandates.

Earlier this month, Abbott signed more than 660 bills that were passed in the regular Texas Legislature which have now gone into effect.