We reported at the beginning of June that Governor Greg Abbott notified the legislature that he was calling them back into a special session to begin on July 18. This morning Gov. Abbott issued his official proclamation notifying the legislature of the topics that can be addressed during the special session, which can only last 30 days. The initial proclamation includes sunset legislation for five state boards, including the Texas Medical Board. 

Governor Abbott's proclamation can be viewed here: Proclamation

A subsequent supplemental proclamation was issued that adds 20 additional items, including a school finance study, vouchers, and a teacher pay raise. None of these items are allowed to be officially addressed until legislation passes to extend the five state agencies under sunset review. 

The supplemental proclamation can be viewed here: Supplemental Proclamation

As of Monday afternoon, 52 bills had been pre-filed for the special session, including legislation to address the small district adjustment penalty, funding for a teacher pay raise, and placing additional restraints on state spending. 

There has already been talk of finding additional funds for a small number of school districts (request for additional ASATR dollars), while other districts throughout the state continue to operate under stagnant formula funding. There are many districts throughout the state that desperately need additional funding, but this should be accomplished by addressing the entire school finance system so that all low revenue districts benefit. If additional funding is to be found for public education, it should be used to increase both student and taxpayer equity, not to create additional hold-harmless band aids. 

We will be providing updates as they occur. Please contact us at info@equitycenter.org or512-478-7313 with any questions or comments.