The bill, S.B. No. 49, aims to enhance the safety and emergency preparedness of youth camps in Texas by establishing specific requirements for emergency operations plans, staff training, and camper safety drills. It introduces a new section, 141.0091, to the Health and Safety Code, mandating that youth camp operators develop and implement a written emergency operations plan that includes procedures for various emergency situations, such as disasters and serious accidents. The plan must be reviewed annually and include clear instructions for campers, staff, and volunteers regarding emergency sheltering and evacuation. Additionally, the bill requires that the emergency operations plan be prominently posted in key locations within the camp.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that before each camp session, operators must provide comprehensive training to staff and volunteers on the emergency operations plan, including specific responsibilities and emergency management skills. It also mandates that age-appropriate emergency drills be conducted within 48 hours of the camp session's start to familiarize campers with evacuation routes and emergency procedures. Records of training and drill completion must be maintained in the camp's administrative office. The executive commissioner is tasked with adopting necessary rules to implement these provisions.

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