Texas House Bill HB268

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

• Filed: 8/4/25

Caption

Relating to the prohibited use as overnight accommodations of youth camp structures located within certain floodplains.

Impact

The proposed changes to Section 141.009 of the Health and Safety Code delineate health and safety standards applicable to youth camps, underscoring the necessity of proper supervision, health services, and safe facilities. By implementing restrictions on where camps can accommodate overnight guests, the bill addresses significant risks related to natural disasters, thereby potentially reducing liability for camp operators while enhancing the safety of campers. This could lead to broader implications for existing camps that may need to adjust their infrastructure or operations to comply with new requirements.

Summary

House Bill 268 focuses on the regulation of youth camps in relation to their compliance with flood safety standards. Specifically, the bill aims to prohibit the use of any structure as overnight accommodations if its lowest floor is located within a designated 100-year floodplain and below the base flood elevation. This legislative effort seeks to enhance the safety of children attending these camps by ensuring that they are not housed in potentially hazardous areas prone to flooding.

Contention

While the bill is rooted in safety concerns, it might face opposition from camp operators who rely on certain structures for accommodations but fall within the prohibited floodplain areas. Critics may argue that it could impose undue financial burdens on these camps, necessitating costly renovations or relocations. Furthermore, there may be concerns regarding the adequacy of alternative accommodation options within compliant zones, potentially limiting access to camp experiences for children from various regions.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Health And Safety Code

• Chapter 141. Youth Camps
  • Section: New Section