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HB 2974

Overnight youth camps; Overnight Youth Camp Severe Weather Safety Act; legislative intent; severe weather action plan; National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration radios; effective date; emergency.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jacob Rosecrants

Oklahoma bill requires overnight youth camps to create severe weather safety plans and install NOAA radios to protect children from weather emergencies.

Referred to Appropriations and Budget General Government Subcommittee
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Bill Summary · HB 2974

Legislative bill overview

HB 2974, the Overnight Youth Camp Severe Weather Safety Act, mandates that overnight youth camps in Oklahoma develop and implement comprehensive severe weather action plans and acquire National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) radios for early warning systems. The bill establishes safety protocols and equipment requirements to protect youth during severe weather events at overnight camp facilities.

Why is this important

Youth camps serve thousands of Oklahoma children annually, and severe weather—including tornadoes and severe thunderstorms—poses genuine safety risks in the state. Standardized weather safety protocols and reliable early warning systems could significantly reduce injuries and fatalities during dangerous weather events at these facilities.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory burden and cost: Camps, particularly smaller or non-profit operations, may face substantial expenses for NOAA radios, plan development, and staff training, potentially increasing camp fees or reducing accessibility for low-income families
  • Implementation clarity: The bill lacks specific details on plan requirements, compliance verification, enforcement mechanisms, and who oversees adherence to standards (state health department, parks authority, etc.)
  • Equipment vs. infrastructure: NOAA radios are one component of safety; the bill does not address whether camps need shelters, building reinforcements, or other protective infrastructure to effectively protect youth during severe weather

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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