New Laws Signed for Camp Safety in Texas
On Friday, Texas Governor Greg Abbott (R) enacted several laws aimed at enhancing camper safety following a tragic flood that claimed the lives of multiple individuals at Camp Mystic earlier this year.
While signing the legislation, Abbott expressed empathy, stating, “As parents of campers, Cecilia and I understand how impactful camps can be in our children’s lives.” He added, “I know the anxiety of waiting to see your child after leaving them at camp. Every child should return to their families, and parents shouldn’t have to endure such devastating losses. Today, we’re not just changing campsites in Texas; we’re shaping the future for our children.”
The new Youth Camper Act mandates that youth camps develop emergency protocols, train their staff, and inform both campers and parents about the risks associated with flood-prone areas, requiring signed acknowledgments to ensure understanding.
In memory of the 27 campers and staff lost while attempting to navigate the flood this summer, a bill known as “27 in Heaven” prohibits the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) from permitting youth camps in areas identified as flood zones and establishes an online registry for licensed camps.
Additionally, a separate piece of legislation has initiated a grant program funded by the governor to install early warning sirens in localities susceptible to flash flooding.
Blake Bonner, a parent who lost a child at Camp Mystic, remarked that her daughter’s tragic death was “100% preventable.” She and other parents actively encouraged Abbott to support these new laws in honor of their lost children.
“They made it clear that they did not want their daughters’ deaths to be in vain. They pushed for this legislation so that no other parent would have to endure the horrors they faced,” Abbott noted, referencing the advocacy of these families.
“The council recognized its responsibility… They approached this with empathy, resulting in laws that will come into force when camps reopen next summer.”
