The bill amends the Health and Safety Code to enhance emergency preparedness and safety requirements for youth camps in Texas. It mandates the executive commissioner to establish health and safety standards, which now include fire and flood precautions. Additionally, the bill introduces new sections that require youth camp operators to provide documentation to the department demonstrating compliance with various emergency safety requirements. These include ensuring that camps do not operate in flood plains, maintaining personal flotation devices, having operable radios for weather alerts, and implementing an emergency warning system. Camps must also adopt a written emergency preparedness plan that includes evacuation procedures, emergency equipment protocols, and active shooter response protocols. Furthermore, the bill requires the designation of an emergency preparedness supervisor for each camp session, who will oversee the implementation of the emergency preparedness plan and conduct necessary training and drills. The executive commissioner is authorized to set rules regarding the qualifications and training for this supervisor. The bill aims to ensure that youth camps are better equipped to handle emergencies, thereby enhancing the safety of campers and staff. The provisions of this act will take effect 91 days after the legislative session concludes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 141.009 (Health and Safety Code 141)