So far, Governor Perry has declared a handful of issues to be "emergencies." These include bills relating to Voter ID, Sanctuary Cities, a balanced budget amendment for the U.S.Constitution, and eminent domain. The bill making process in the legislature does not allow for bills to be voted on until after 60 days have passed int he session - the first 60 days are reserved for the introduction of legislation and its consideration in committee.
The 60 day rule is waived if the governor has put the bill on his list of emergency bills. The assumption is that these are urgent matters that need expediting, for whatever reason.
- An explanation in the Texas Tribune.
- TLI: Introducing a bill.
