Texas Lawmakers Convene Special Session on Historic Flood Response, THC, Redistricting

Texas lawmakers convened for a special legislative session focused primarily on addressing the catastrophic flooding in Central Texas, which resulted in at least 134 deaths. Governor Greg Abbott emphasized improving flood warning systems, emergency communications, and securing relief funding as top priorities, alongside tackling other issues such as THC regulation and redistricting efforts urged by President Trump. The session's agenda includes 18 items, with a strong focus on disaster management infrastructure and preparedness. While Republicans are concentrating on practical flood recovery measures, broader discussions on climate change impacts and FEMA staffing shortages have been largely sidelined. Protesters have urged the legislature to prioritize flood-related infrastructure and warning systems over partisan redistricting battles. The Governor has the authority to extend the session if all matters are not resolved within the initial 30 days.