The Texas House of Representatives' Committee on Culture, Recreation & Tourism convened on June 8, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding emergency preparedness and the impact of recent flooding on the state's travel and lodging industry. The meeting highlighted the importance of coordinated responses to natural disasters, including floods, tornadoes, and wildfires, and the need for effective communication between government agencies and the lodging sector.

Justin Bragle, representing the Texas Hotel and Lodging Association, emphasized the association's extensive experience in disaster response, noting that it represents approximately 6,000 lodging properties across Texas. He outlined the proactive measures taken by the association to prepare for potential disasters, including communication with local governments and hotel operators to ensure readiness for evacuations and the influx of displaced individuals. Bragle also discussed the aftermath of recent flooding in Kerr County, where most lodging properties remained undamaged, allowing them to provide temporary housing for first responders and those affected by the disaster.

Randall Dally, past president of the Texas Association of Campground Owners, shared insights on the challenges faced by campgrounds following the flooding. He noted that many campgrounds experienced a significant drop in reservations due to concerns about safety and damage, despite being unaffected. Dally highlighted the need for a media campaign to reassure potential visitors that the Hill Country remains open for business. He also stressed the importance of having comprehensive emergency plans in place, acknowledging the difficulties in preparing for unprecedented events.

The committee's discussions underscored the vital role of the travel and lodging industry in disaster response and recovery, as well as the ongoing need for legislative support to enhance emergency preparedness across Texas. The meeting concluded with a commitment to reintroduce a statewide evacuation plan to ensure a unified approach to disaster management in the future.