TX Governor Calling Special Session

(Austin, TX) — Texas Governor Greg Abbott is going to be calling a special session of the legislature to tackle bail reform and election integrity.

The Republican says he’s deeply disappointed the Texas Legislature didn’t pass either measure before time ran out Sunday night. Texas House Democrats blocked votes on both bills by walking out, calling the election integrity bill attempted voter suppression. It would ban drive-through voting and prevent counties from sending unsolicited vote by mail applications.

Meantime, House Bill 20 tries to make it easier for arrested people to make bail. Abbott says both issues are emergencies in the state, but did not reveal what other items might be added to the special session.

Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick wants social media regulation, bans on taxpayer-funded lobbyists, and requiring high school athletes to compete in sports based on their birth gender.