Texas Lawmakers Begin 30-Day Special Session After Deadly Flooding

Texas lawmakers gather in Austin on July 21 for a 30-day special legislative session, following the tragic events of historic flooding in Central Texas that resulted in the loss of at least 135 lives. 

Governor Greg Abbott convened the session to address a range of pressing issues, including disaster response, redistricting, and contentious cannabis regulations.

Abbott presented 18 key agenda items, emphasizing the urgent need to enhance Texas’s emergency systems and extend financial support to communities affected by flooding. “We will explore strategies to enhance our preparation and response efforts—ensuring Texas is better equipped than it was before this catastrophic storm,” Abbott stated during a press conference in San Angelo on July 17.

A critical area of attention will be overseeing the regulation of consumable THC products. In June, Abbott chose not to impose a complete ban, instead encouraging legislators to create rules that include prohibiting sales close to schools, establishing testing standards, and mandating warning labels. Advocates for a complete prohibition, such as Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, contend that existing regulations fall short in safeguarding public health. Experts caution that banning THC may negatively impact veterans relying on it for managing PTSD and chronic pain.

The redrawing of Texas’s congressional maps is another critical issue at play. The U.S. Department of Justice has raised legal concerns about four districts—TX-09, TX-18, TX-29, and TX-33—claiming their racial composition. Texas officials have refuted claims of race-based decision-making in their 2021 redistricting efforts. However, Democrats, including Rep. Ron Reynolds, have indicated a willingness to break quorum once more to stop what they describe as the dismantling of democracy.

The session brings attention back to a previously halted bill aimed at expanding the reach of outdoor warning sirens and emergency alert systems across the state. Lawmakers are set to gather insights from impacted communities during public hearings, with a session scheduled for July 31 in Kerrville. A panel of 18 members from both parties, comprising representatives from the most affected towns, is expected to begin discussions on July 23.

Abbott is urging lawmakers to implement stricter measures on local governments regarding property tax increases. Fiscal conservatives praise this initiative, while municipalities express concern over potential revenue losses for essential public services.

Residents of Texas have the opportunity to share their thoughts on disaster response through the committee's online platform.