The Committee on Culture, Recreation & Tourism of the Texas House of Representatives convened on June 8, 2025, to discuss critical safety measures for youth camps in the state. The meeting featured testimonies from camp professionals, including Steve Baskin, owner of Camp Champions and board chair of the American Camp Association, who emphasized the importance of safety culture in camp operations.

Baskin began by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to address the committee, highlighting the significant economic impact of Texas camps, which employ over 60,000 workers and serve approximately 1.5 million campers annually. He shared a personal story about the loss of his cousin, Jane Ragsdale, a camp director who tragically passed away, underscoring the emotional weight of the discussions surrounding camp safety.

The committee heard recommendations from Baskin regarding the development of comprehensive emergency plans for camps. He stressed the necessity for these plans to be site-specific, taking into account local conditions and potential hazards. Key recommendations included:

1. **Emergency Plans**: Camps should have detailed, written emergency plans approved by the Department of State Health Services, covering various scenarios such as natural disasters and medical emergencies.

2. **Coordination with Local Authorities**: Camps must collaborate with local first responders to ensure their plans are effective and tailored to the specific risks of their locations.

3. **Communication Systems**: Baskin advocated for robust communication systems that remain operational during power outages, including two-way radios and traditional methods of communication.

4. **Training and Drills**: Staff should be trained in emergency procedures, with clear guidelines posted in accessible areas to ensure quick action during crises.

5. **Avoiding Anxiety**: Safety drills should be conducted in a manner that does not induce panic among campers, and the use of cell phones should be limited to maintain a focused camp environment.

The committee members engaged in discussions about the potential for legislative action to establish safety standards for camps. Representative Vasu acknowledged the complexities of creating uniform regulations given the diversity of camp operations across Texas. The committee explored the existing authority granted to the Texas Commission to adopt health and safety standards but recognized the need for clearer guidelines.

As the meeting concluded, Baskin reiterated the camp industry's commitment to safety and collaboration with state authorities to enhance the well-being of campers. The committee plans to review the recommendations presented and consider potential legislative measures to improve safety standards in youth camps across Texas.