The bill, H.B. No. 172, introduces new emergency safety certification requirements for campground operators in Texas by adding Chapter 762 to the Health and Safety Code. Under this chapter, campground operators must obtain an emergency safety certification issued by the Texas Division of Emergency Management before operating a campground. The division is tasked with establishing a certification program that includes requirements for developing and implementing an emergency preparedness plan, which must be submitted for approval. The plan must ensure that cabins are equipped with communication devices for emergencies and include evacuation procedures for guests.

Additionally, the bill imposes a civil penalty of $1,000 for each violation of these requirements, with each day of non-compliance considered a separate violation. The attorney general is authorized to sue for the collection of penalties and recover associated legal costs. While the rules for certification must be adopted by March 1, 2026, campground operators are granted a grace period until May 1, 2026, before they are required to hold the certification. The act will take effect 91 days after the legislative session concludes.

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