HB 224 would require youth camp operators in Texas to adopt and keep on-site a written emergency preparedness plan tailored to each camp. The plan must address a range of emergencies, including natural disasters, lost campers, fires, transportation incidents, severe illness or injury, unauthorized persons on the premises, aquatic emergencies where relevant, and other emergencies specific to the camp’s location or activities. The bill also requires camps to have procedures for notifying and communicating with parents or legal guardians during an emergency.
The bill further requires camp operators to work with local authorities and first responders when creating the initial plan, to update it annually, to submit the plan to those authorities, and to conduct an annual walkthrough of the premises with them. In addition, each initial or updated plan must be submitted annually to the state department for approval, and if the department finds deficiencies, the operator must revise and resubmit the plan within 90 days. The act would take effect on the 91st day after the end of the legislative session.
Impact
HB 224 would amend Chapter 141 of the Texas Health and Safety Code by adding a new section governing emergency preparedness at youth camps. It would impose new compliance duties on camp operators, create an annual review and approval process involving both local responders and the state department, and likely increase administrative and operational requirements for licensed youth camps. The bill would primarily affect youth camp operators, campers, parents or guardians, local emergency responders, and the state agency responsible for reviewing plans.
Sentiment
Based on the bill text and the absence of recorded committee testimony or votes in the provided materials, the measure appears to be framed as a safety and preparedness bill with a generally protective, preventive purpose. Its requirements suggest a focus on improving emergency response readiness and communication at youth camps rather than on controversial policy changes. No formal support or opposition is documented in the supplied context.
Contention
The main potential points of contention are the added regulatory burden on youth camp operators and the need to coordinate annually with local authorities and the state department. Operators may view the planning, submission, walkthrough, and resubmission requirements as time-consuming or costly, especially for smaller camps or camps with specialized activities. On the other hand, supporters would likely emphasize child safety, emergency readiness, and clearer parent notification procedures. No specific opposing or supporting stakeholders are identified in the provided record.
Relating to emergency preparedness requirements for youth camps, camps, and entities that provide high-risk activities for minors; authorizing a civil penalty.