Gov. Greg Abbott has called the Texas Legislature together for a special session to pass new laws on school choice, border security, and medical autonomy.
“I am bringing the Texas Legislature back for Special Session #3 to continue building on the achievements we accomplished during the 88th Regular Legislative Session and two special sessions this summer,” the governor explained in a statement received by The Dallas Express.
“Together, we will chart a brighter future for all Texas children by empowering parents to choose the best education option for their child.
“Texas will also pass laws to mirror the federal immigration laws President Joe Biden refuses to enforce that will reduce illegal immigration and enhance the safety of Texans. For the first time ever, Texas will subject people to arrest for illegal entry into our state from a foreign nation.
“All licensed law enforcement officers in Texas will be authorized to arrest or remove any person who illegally enters the State, with penalties up to 20 years in prison for refusing to comply with removal,” he continued. “To crack down on repeated attempts to enter Texas illegally, re-entry will be penalized with up to 20 years in prison.”
“Additionally, we must protect the freedom of Texans from forced COVID-19 vaccinations,” Abbott concluded. “I look forward to working with my partners in the Legislature to address these critical issues.”
Within the proclamation, Gov. Abbott detailed that the Legislature should “consider and act upon” various pressing issues.
First, he asked for “Legislation providing education savings accounts for all Texas schoolchildren.”
The next four requests pertained to border security, with Abbott detailing the need for “Legislation to do more to reduce illegal immigration by creating a criminal offense for illegal entry into this state from a foreign nation and authorizing all licensed peace officers to remove illegal immigrants from Texas.” Laws to strengthen penalties for human smuggling and stash house operations were also mentioned in the proclamation.
Moreover, the lawmakers will consider “Legislation to impede illegal entry into Texas by providing more funding for the construction, operation, and maintenance of border barrier infrastructure,” and laws “concerning public safety, security, environmental quality, and property ownership in areas like the Colony Ridge development.”
Finally, Abbott included the need for “Legislation prohibiting COVID-19 vaccine mandates by private employers.”
The House and Senate will convene in Austin on October 9 at 1 p.m.
