WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 49

Relating to youth camp emergency operations plans, including camp staff and volunteer training and camper safety drills.

89th Legislature, 1st Called Session (2025) Introduced by Judith Zaffirini

SB 49 mandates Texas youth camps develop emergency operations plans, train staff and volunteers, and conduct regular safety drills to improve crisis response and camper protection.

Referred to Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select
#disasterpreparedness&relief(i0211) #health&humanservicescommission(v0177) #staffdevelopment&training(s0317) #safety(i0740) #youthcamps(s2463)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 49

Legislative bill overview

SB 49 establishes requirements for youth camps in Texas to develop and maintain emergency operations plans, including mandatory staff and volunteer training protocols and regular safety drills for campers. The bill standardizes emergency preparedness across youth camp facilities to ensure coordinated response capabilities during crises.

Why is this important

Youth camps serve thousands of children annually in Texas, and emergency preparedness directly affects camper safety during natural disasters, medical emergencies, or other crises. Standardized training and drills ensure staff can respond effectively and campers understand evacuation procedures, potentially reducing injuries and fatalities during emergencies.

Potential points of contention

  • Compliance burden and costs: Camps, particularly smaller or nonprofit operations, may face significant expenses implementing comprehensive emergency plans, training programs, and conducting regular drills
  • Regulatory specificity: The bill's requirements for staff training and drill frequency are not detailed in this summary, leaving questions about whether mandates are flexible enough for different camp types and sizes
  • Enforcement and oversight: Unclear which state agency enforces compliance and whether violations carry penalties, affecting how seriously camps treat these requirements

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

Sign in to ask a question.