Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has expanded the agenda for the Texas Legislature's second special session to address three new issues. The announcement was made in a message sent to lawmakers on August 20, 2025.

"Today I am expanding the agenda for the second special session to include important issues that will benefit Texas," said Governor Abbott. "First, we need to ensure that rogue lawmakers cannot hijack the important business of Texans during a legislative session by fleeing the state. Additionally, Texans should have increased access to the benefits of Ivermectin. Finally, we need to ensure appropriate studies are conducted to protect the health of East Texas aquifers."

The newly added items for consideration include legislation aimed at penalizing legislators who intentionally leave during a session, measures that would allow individuals to purchase Ivermectin at pharmacies, and proposals related to conducting groundwater studies of East Texas aquifers by the Texas Water Development Board before certain permits or permit amendments are issued by local groundwater conservation districts.

These additions follow previous debates in which some legislators left the state during key votes, prompting calls for stricter attendance requirements. The focus on Ivermectin access comes amid ongoing discussions about its use and regulation in various states. The proposed groundwater study reflects concerns over water resource management in East Texas.