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Bill

HB 226

Relating to the required provision to campers at youth camps of active radio frequency identification tags.

89th Legislature, 2nd Called Session (2025) Introduced by Daniel Alders and 68 co-sponsors

Texas bill requiring youth camps to issue active RFID tracking tags to campers to enhance safety monitoring and prevent lost children during camp activities.

Referred to Public Health
#disasterpreparedness&relief(i0211) #electronicinformationsystems(i0311) #health&humanservicescommission(v0177) #minors--health&safety(i0533) #safety(i0740) #youthcamps(s2463)
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Bill Summary · HB 226

Legislative bill overview

HB 226 would require youth camps in Texas to provide campers with active radio frequency identification (RFID) tags. These electronic devices would allow real-time tracking of camper locations within camp facilities. The bill establishes a new safety mandate for youth-serving organizations operating in the state.

Why is this important

Youth camp safety is a significant concern for parents and regulators, as camps are responsible for monitoring the whereabouts of children during activities. RFID tracking could potentially help prevent lost campers, unauthorized departures, or other safety incidents, though effectiveness depends on implementation details not specified in the bill summary. This represents a policy shift toward technological oversight of children in institutional settings.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy concerns: Real-time tracking of minors raises questions about surveillance scope, data storage, parental consent protocols, and who can access location information
  • Implementation costs: Mandatory RFID systems require significant capital investment in infrastructure and ongoing maintenance; unclear whether costs fall on camps or are subsidized
  • Effectiveness and scope: The bill lacks clarity on whether tags are required for all activities, overnight stays only, or specific risk situations, and whether RFID alone adequately addresses safety versus other proven measures

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

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