Abbott announces fourth special session to cover school choice, border security

The fourth special session of the Texas Legislature is underway after Gov. Greg Abbott announced it into session on November 5. According to a press release from the Office of the Texas Governor, the agenda for the latest special session will focus on education and border security.

The third special session concluded without lawmakers passing legislation pertaining to an education savings account program and ways to criminalize illegal entry into the state from Mexico. "The current session may have to carry on without Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who is currently recovering from viral pneumonia," Austin Journal reported, citing a statement from his office.

"The governor hopes to finally deliver on school choice and secure the border after President Joe Biden purportedly refused to enforce federal immigration laws," according to the release. Abbott said that he looks forward to working with legislators on addressing these issues.

In contrast, The Texas Tribune reported that just two of five items were passed during a 30-day period in the third special session. It also highlighted ongoing tensions between Patrick and Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives Representative Dade Phelan (R-Beaumont). The outlet reiterated that special sessions are legally capped at 30 days duration.