What is a Special Session? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Q: Who can call a special session?

Typically, a special session is called by the executive branch, such as the President or a Governor.

Q: How long does a special session last?

The duration of a special session varies by state, often ranging from a few days to several weeks.

Definition & Meaning

A special session is a legislative meeting called outside the regular term of a legislative body, typically initiated by the executive branch. This session focuses on specific issues, such as addressing a backlog of legislative work or finalizing the government budget for the upcoming fiscal period. Special sessions can also be convened during times of economic crisis to make necessary budget cuts. In the United States, the President has the authority to call such sessions under Article II, Section III of the Constitution, which allows for the convening of both Houses of Congress during extraordinary occasions.

Table of content

Legal Use & context

Special sessions are primarily used in legislative contexts, where they serve to address urgent matters that cannot wait until the next regular session. This term is relevant in various legal areas, including budgetary law and public policy. Users may encounter special sessions when dealing with government budgets or legislative processes that require immediate attention. Legal templates from US Legal Forms can assist individuals in navigating these processes efficiently.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A Governor calls a special session to address a budget shortfall in the state, allowing the legislature to propose and vote on emergency funding measures.

Example 2: The U.S. President convenes a special session of Congress to discuss urgent national security legislation following a significant event (hypothetical example).

Relevant laws & statutes

Special sessions are governed by state constitutions and legislative rules. In the U.S., Article II, Section III of the Constitution grants the President the authority to call Congress into special session. Each state has its own provisions regarding how and when a special session can be convened. For specific details, users should refer to their state's legislative rules.

State-by-state differences

State	Special Session Calling Authority	Typical Duration
California	Governor	Up to 14 days
Texas	Governor	30 days
Florida	Governor	20 days

This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term	Definition	Key Differences
Regular Session	A scheduled legislative meeting that occurs at fixed intervals.	Regular sessions are planned and recurring, while special sessions are called as needed.
Extraordinary Session	A session called for urgent matters, similar to a special session.	Terms are often interchangeable, but "extraordinary" may imply a more critical situation.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you find yourself needing to understand or participate in a special session, consider the following steps:

Stay informed about the issues being discussed in your local or state legislature.
Review any relevant legal documents or templates available through US Legal Forms to prepare for participation.
If the situation is complex, consult with a legal professional for tailored advice.

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Quick facts

Authority: Typically called by the executive branch.
Duration: Varies by state (e.g., California - 14 days, Texas - 30 days).
Purpose: To address urgent legislative matters, including budgets.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of a special session?

A special session is meant to address urgent legislative matters that cannot wait until the next regular session.