Understanding the Power and Politics of Special Sessions

September 2025 | The Policy Stack

Just when you think the legislative year is winding down, a special session can change everything. A "special session"—a legislative session called outside of the constitutionally mandated regular session—is one of the most powerful and politically charged tools in state government. For advocates, a special session can represent a golden opportunity to advance a priority issue or a sudden, urgent threat to defend against an unfavorable policy.

Unlike the sprawling, multi-topic nature of a regular session, a special session is, by its nature, focused. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), the power to call a special session typically rests with the governor, although in some states, the legislature can call itself into session. Crucially, in many of these states, the governor sets the specific agenda, meaning lawmakers can only consider the topics included in the official "call."

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