There were questions about how a special legislative session works in Texas? With one called by the Governor that started last week on July 21, 2025.
The Governor's Role in Calling a Special Session
In Texas, the Governor holds the exclusive authority to call a special legislative session. This power is granted under the Texas Constitution, allowing the Governor to convene the Legislature at times outside of the regular legislative sessions, which occur biennially. The primary reason for calling a special session is to address urgent issues that require immediate legislative action, which cannot wait until the next regular session.
When the Governor calls a special session, it can last up to 30 days. The Governor can call as many special sessions as deemed necessary, each with its specific agenda. This mechanism ensures that pressing matters receive timely attention and deliberation.
Setting the Agenda: How Topics Are Chosen
The agenda for a special session in Texas is determined solely by the Governor. This means that the issues to be discussed and addressed during the session are at the Governor's discretion. Once the Governor sets the agenda, the Legislature is limited to considering only those topics included in the proclamation.
This focused approach allows the Legislature to concentrate on specific issues without being overwhelmed by unrelated matters. It also ensures that the Governor's priorities are given precedence during the special session. However, any legislator can propose bills within the scope of the set agenda, providing some flexibility in addressing the specified topics.
Exploring the Key Issues in the July 21 Special Session
According to the press release sent by the Governor's office, the initial special agenda was to focus on several bills. In response to the flood disaster, the Governor expanded the agenda to include 18 items, reflecting an ambitious legislative scope.
Given the urgent nature of special sessions, the issues selected are often those that require immediate legislative action at the interests of Texas residents. The Governor's office typically provides a detailed rationale for each agenda item to help guide the Legislature's discussions and decisions.
Can a 13th Check Be Added to the Special Session Agenda?
The inclusion of a '13th check'—a supplemental pension payment for retired state employees—on the special session agenda is a decision that rests with the Governor. If the Governor recognizes the need for this additional payment as a pressing issue, it can indeed be added to the agenda.
Advocacy groups and legislators can ask the Governor to include specific items such as a 13th check for ERS retirees, which TPEA has done. However, unless the Governor explicitly includes it in the proclamation, the Legislature cannot take action on it during the special session. Agencies like ERS cannot make any requests for a 13th check to be included either. This highlights the importance of ongoing advocacy for retired state employees, their representatives, and the Governor’s office to address such financial concerns.
The Impact and Importance of Special Legislative Sessions in Texas
Special legislative sessions play a crucial role in Texas governance by allowing the state to address significant issues that arise between regular sessions. These sessions provide the flexibility needed to respond to emergencies, adapt to changing circumstances, and implement necessary reforms without delay.
By convening a special session, the Governor ensures that critical matters receive the legislative attention they require. This mechanism underscores the dynamic nature of governance in Texas, enabling the state to remain responsive and effective in serving its residents’ needs.
Support Retiree Benefits and Join TPEA Today
TPEA is actively working to ensure this issue is heard at the highest levels, but we can’t do it without you. By joining TPEA, you’re not just staying informed, you’re strengthening the collective voice advocating for fair, long-overdue support for retired state employees. Stand with us. Join TPEA today.
To learn more about the Special Session, you can read our blog: Legislative Special Session 2025: What to Know by clicking here.