S.B. No. 1 aims to enhance safety regulations for campgrounds and youth camps in Texas by amending the Health and Safety Code. The bill introduces new definitions such as "Cabin," "Camper," "Day camp," "Floodplain," "Resident youth camp," and "Youth camp operator," while clarifying existing terms. It mandates the Department of Health to maintain an online list of licensed youth camps and prohibits the issuance or renewal of licenses for youth camps with cabins located in floodplains. Additionally, the bill establishes new health and safety standards for youth camp operators, including the development of comprehensive emergency plans and ensuring proper communication and training for staff and campers.

The legislation also outlines specific safety requirements for campground operators, such as installing emergency ladders in cabins within floodplains and creating evacuation plans for emergencies. Operators must maintain safety equipment, conduct regular safety orientations, and ensure that emergency plans are accessible to parents or guardians. The bill requires campground operators to implement portions of their emergency plans upon receiving weather warnings and to send copies of these plans to local emergency management coordinators. Furthermore, it mandates compliance with the National Fire Protection Association's standards and sets deadlines for the adoption of necessary rules and submission of emergency plans by youth camp operators. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon a two-thirds vote or on the 91st day after the legislative session if such a vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: ()