The priority is maintaining current programs, since the state's budget is currently $1 billion in deficit. 

Phelan’s election to the gavel was one of the House’s first order of business Tuesday, when the Legislature kicked off the 2021 legislative session.

Much about the session — including how it will be conducted during a pandemic — remains uncertain.

Texas will have about half a percent less than what was made available last legislative session. Though it means less money to work with, lawmakers say, is it no where near the bind they were in back in 2011.

Mayor Dan Pope says the City Council will support legislators as they deal with extensive budget cuts due to Covid-19.

The pandemic will continue to affect everyday life into 2021, and the State Legislature meeting in January is no exception.