Texas Bill Protects Youth Camps From Floodplain Flooding

House Bill 75 would strengthen health and safety rules for youth camps across Texas. Sponsored by Don McLaughlin, this bill focuses on protecting camps located in flood-risk areas — those within a 100-year floodplain or within five feet of one.

The bill directs Texas health officials to create building standards that help camps prevent and reduce flooding damage. These new flood-protection standards would apply to all buildings and structures at camps in vulnerable locations. By requiring camps to build with flooding in mind, the law aims to keep young people safer during camp activities.

The bill also strengthens existing safety rules for all youth camps in Texas. Camps must already follow standards about supervision, staff qualifications, sanitation, medical services, food safety, water quality, waste disposal, water safety, boating equipment, vehicle maintenance, fire safety, and staff background checks. House Bill 75 builds on these proven protections.

The bill was introduced in the Texas Legislature in 2025. Lawmakers can pass it immediately with a two-thirds vote, or it takes effect 91 days after the legislative session ends. This approach gives our state a chance to better protect the young people who attend camps, especially in areas where flooding poses real risks to camp facilities and activities.

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