Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has signed three bills into law aimed at improving safety at Texas summer camps and addressing flood risks across the state. The signing took place at the Governor's Mansion, with Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, Senator Charles Perry, Representative Drew Darby, families affected by camp safety incidents, and other officials in attendance.

"As camper parents, Cecilia and I know the powerful role that camps can play in the lives of our children," said Governor Abbott. "We know the anxious anticipation to see your child again after dropping her off at camp. Every child who goes to camp should come home to their families, and no parent should ever have to outlive their child or endure this kind of loss. Today we are doing more than just changing campgrounds in Texas, we are changing the future for our children."

The legislation includes House Bill 1 (the Youth CAMPER Act), Senate Bill 1 (the Heaven's 27 Camp Safety Act), and Senate Bill 3. Together, these laws introduce new requirements for emergency preparedness at youth camps and expand support for flood mitigation efforts.

House Bill 1 requires youth camps to develop and update emergency plans each year. Staff must be trained on these plans, campers oriented on procedures, and parents notified about any floodplain risks associated with a camp—with signed acknowledgment required. Camps must also share their emergency plans with local emergency services. The Department of State Health Services (DSHS) will enforce compliance through inspections, complaint investigations, and may suspend or deny licenses if standards are not met.

Senate Bill 1 prohibits DSHS from licensing youth camps that have cabins located within FEMA-designated floodplains unless specific exceptions apply. It also mandates annual emergency training and planning for camps, establishes an online registry of licensed youth camps for public access, and extends certain safety standards to campgrounds and recreational vehicle parks.

Senate Bill 3 sets up a grant program managed by the Office of the Governor to help local governments fund early-warning sirens in areas vulnerable to flash flooding.

During his remarks at the event, Governor Abbott highlighted how these new measures are intended to ensure greater protection for children attending summer camps throughout Texas. He emphasized both the positive influence of camps on young people’s lives and the need for stronger safeguards following past tragedies.

After the ceremony, Governor Abbott and First Lady Cecilia Abbott met privately with families who have been impacted by previous camp safety incidents to offer their continued support.

Additional photos from the bill signing event will be made available when released by state officials.