The bill amends Section 141.009 of the Health and Safety Code to enhance health and safety standards for youth camps by adding new requirements. Specifically, it introduces the need for records of criminal convictions of camp personnel and mandates that youth camps have easily accessible telephones or other means of real-time communication during emergencies. Additionally, a new section, 141.0091, is added, which requires youth camp operators to develop and implement a comprehensive emergency operations plan. This plan must address various emergency scenarios, including natural disasters, fires, and medical emergencies, and must be reviewed and updated annually.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that youth camp operators must provide training to staff and volunteers on the emergency operations plan before each camp session, assign specific responsibilities for implementing the plan, and instruct campers on emergency procedures. The emergency operations plan must be submitted to the relevant department for review and posted conspicuously at the camp. The bill also requires that evacuation procedures be shared with the local emergency management coordinator for review. The act will take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on the 91st day after the legislative session if such a vote is not achieved.

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