Officials said there was more work to be done after various Republican priority bills—ranging from property tax cuts and border security to private school vouchers and teacher pay raises—did not pass during the 140-day regular session.
“I would not pack your bags just yet,” House Speaker Dade Phelan told lawmakers as they adjourned at 6:15 p.m.
The Senate adjourned shortly after.
Less than three hours later, Abbott issued a proclamation for a special legislative session, which began at 9 p.m. May 29. Lawmakers can only introduce and pass bills related to topics designated by the governor during a specially-called session.
This time, they will consider legislation surrounding property tax relief and border security, Abbott announced. In a news release, he specified that lawmakers should cut property taxes by reducing school district tax rates "in order to provide lasting property-tax relief for Texas taxpayers."
Each special session can last up to 30 days, and Abbott said "several special sessions will be required."
Some bills didn't make the cut
In a letter to Abbott, Patrick asked that he include a variety of topics for consideration during future special sessions. These include cutting property taxes, increasing salaries for teachers, reforming bail policies, creating a new border police force and more.
During his State of the State address in February, Abbott named seven emergency priorities for the regular legislative session.
Only three of them—ending COVID-19 mandates, increasing school safety and tackling the fentanyl crisis—made it to the governor's desk.
In a statement after both chambers adjourned, Patrick blamed the House for the demise of several bills.
“I am very proud of the work of the Texas Senate this legislative session. We fought for Texans at every turn, only to see many of our efforts killed in the Texas House,” Patrick said.
Bills missed key end-of-session deadlines in both chambers due to issues with negotiations.
