Texas Governor Greg Abbott has made a significant impact in the legislative sphere, signing 1,155 bills into law and vetoing 28 others from the 89th Regular Legislative Session. His actions extended beyond approvals and rejections, as he also called for a Special Session starting July 21, during which lawmakers will revisit several bills identified for further consideration. Known for his direct approach, Governor Abbott reflected this in his outlined priorities for the session, stating, "Working with the Texas Legislature, we delivered results that will benefit Texans for generations to come," according to a statement from the Governor's office.
At the close of the Regular Legislative Session, all seven of Governor Abbott’s emergency items were enacted into law. These measures addressed a range of priorities, including property tax relief, generational investment in water infrastructure, increased teacher pay, expanded career training opportunities, the introduction of school choice, bail reform, and the creation of the Texas Cyber Command. The Governor also approved the state’s 2026–2027 General Appropriations Act and the Supplemental Budget.
In preparation for the Special Session, Governor Abbott's office released a list of vetoed or unsigned bills identified for possible reconsideration. Among them are Senate Bill 3, focused on the regulation of hemp products; SB 648, related to the recordation of real property instruments; SB 1253, addressing fees for water projects; SB 1278, which provides an affirmative defense for victims of trafficking or prostitution; SB 1758, concerning cement kiln operations near semiconductor facilities; and SB 2878, which pertains to procedures within the judiciary. With these measures back on the table, the Texas Capitol is poised for another round of legislative deliberation and revision.
Among the bills scheduled for consideration, Senate Bill 1278 stands out for its focus on establishing a legal defense for individuals identified as victims of human trafficking and forced prostitution, "Relating to an affirmative defense to prosecution for victims of trafficking of persons or compelling prostitution," as detailed in the list shared by the Governor's office. Each bill has the potential to affect Texans in different ways, emphasizing the role of the upcoming Special Session as a continued part of the state’s legislative process.
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