The bill, H.B. No. 269, introduces new regulations for campgrounds located in floodways in Texas by adding Chapter 761 to the Health and Safety Code. It defines key terms such as "campground," "campground entity," "division," and "floodway." The bill mandates that any campground entity wishing to construct or expand a campground in a floodway must submit construction plans to the Texas Division of Emergency Management for approval, ensuring that the plans minimize flooding risks, allow for safe evacuation, and provide access for emergency responders. Additionally, campground entities are required to post notices on their websites regarding the locations of their campgrounds in floodways.

The legislation also establishes an administrative penalty of up to $1,000 for violations of the new requirements, with each day of non-compliance counting as a separate violation. Furthermore, it allows for civil actions against campground entities for personal injury or damages resulting from violations. The bill stipulates that compliance with these new regulations will not be required until March 1, 2026, and that any civil actions under the new provisions will only apply to incidents occurring after that date. The Texas Division of Emergency Management is tasked with adopting the necessary rules to implement these changes.

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