Gov. Abbott Unveils Special Session Plans, Reviews Legislative Wins

Governor Greg Abbott (R) announced that a special legislative session will convene on July 21, following the end of the 89th Regular Legislative Session. The Governor signed 1,155 bills into law and vetoed 26, while outlining an initial agenda for the upcoming session.

“Working with the Texas Legislature, we delivered results that will benefit Texans for generations to come,” Gov. Abbott said. “Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, Speaker Dustin Burrows, and the Texas House and Senate worked hard to send critical legislation to my desk. This session has seen monumental success, but there is more we can do.”

All seven of Gov. Abbott’s emergency legislative items were passed and signed into law. These include property tax relief, investments in water infrastructure, teacher pay raises, expanded career training, school choice, bail reform, and the creation of the Texas Cyber Command.

In addition to those measures, Abbott signed the 2026–2027 General Appropriations Act and a supplemental budget. He noted that several bills which were vetoed or allowed to become law without his signature will return for consideration during the special session.

Among them are Senate Bill 3, relating to the regulation of hemp-derived products; Senate Bill 648, involving recording requirements for real estate instruments; and Senate Bill 1253, concerning water project fees and well regulations.

Other bills returning to the agenda include Senate Bill 1278, which would establish an affirmative defense for victims of human trafficking; Senate Bill 1758, which addresses industrial operations near semiconductor manufacturing sites; and Senate Bill 2878, dealing with procedures within the judicial branch.

Abbott emphasized that while the regular session saw substantial legislative success, additional work remains.

“There is more we can do,” he said, signaling continued momentum heading into the special session.