Taking Care
Texas Creates Safety Rules for All Youth Camps
Texas law requires youth camps to have emergency plans, warning systems, and safety equipment to protect children.
By Texas Legislature -- Apr 13, 2026
Overview
House Bill 123 is a new Texas law that sets strong safety standards for youth camps across our state. The law requires camps to have written emergency plans and safety equipment ready at all times to protect the young people in their care.
Under HB 123, every youth camp must have an emergency warning system that works without the internet. This system needs to alert everyone at camp about floods, fires, and other dangers. The warning system connects to the National Weather Service and local emergency notifications so camps know about threats right away. Camps also need operable radios in overnight facilities to receive weather alerts and updates during emergencies.
Camps that are near water must have personal flotation devices on hand for all campers. Facilities in flood-prone areas cannot offer overnight stays, keeping young people out of high-risk zones. Each camp needs a detailed written emergency plan that covers evacuation routes, safe meeting spots called muster points, and how to use fire extinguishers, beacons, and flotation devices.
The law also strengthens supervision and staff training standards. Camp directors and supervisors must meet qualifications set by the state. Camps must keep records of staff criminal history and follow rules about sanitation, food safety, water safety, and building maintenance.
Our community can feel more confident knowing these rules protect young people at summer camps and other youth gatherings. Camps that meet these standards show they take safety seriously and are ready to respond when emergencies happen.
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About the source
The Texas Legislature is the state legislature of Texas, consisting of the House of Representatives with 150 members and the Senate with 31 members. Meeting in regular session every two years, the legislature passes state laws, sets the budget, and shapes policies affecting all 30 million Texans.
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