Flood Response Now Tops Special Session Agenda

The July 21 special session called by Abbott includes addressing the July 4 flood, including improving early warning systems and infrastructure in flood zones, beefing up emergency communications, funding for affected areas and updating state preparedness and recovery procedures, The Dallas Morning News reported.

“We delivered on historic legislation in the 89th Regular Legislative Session that will benefit Texans for generations to come,” Abbott said in a proclamation issued last week. “There is more work to be done, particularly in the aftermath of the devastating floods in the Texas Hill Country. We must ensure better preparation for such events in the future.”

A total of 18 items are on the special session agenda, including congressional redistricting, regulation of hemp-derived products, and further reducing property taxes. Redistricting is sure to spark controversy, as the Republican majority seeks to expand its grip on the state’s congressional seats. Any new redistricting maps almost certainly would face legal challenges.

Only the governor can call a special session, which is limited to 30 days, though he can call as many as he wants between regular biennial sessions.

– Gary Borders