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<\/p>\nGray Reed, a Dallas-based law firm, said they were able to reach an accommodation with the state, allowing camps to operate without fiber optic internet connection.<\/p>\n
DALLAS, Texas \u2014 Several Texas youth camps across Texas will be able to fully operate this summer following an agreement addressing a new state law requiring fiber optic internet connection.<\/p>\n
The Texas Department of State Health Services reached an agreement with a group of 19 youth camp operators regarding new legal requirements that all camps licensed by DSHS maintain fiber optic internet service. Per the new agreement, camps with a “redundant internet service” will not face potential license denial or revocation for not having fiber service during the 2026 camping season, so long as they meet all other safety requirements.<\/p>\n
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\u201cThis agreement will ensure that youth camps in Texas operate with the safety provisions envisioned by the Legislature while allowing camps and families to move forward with their summer plans,\u201d said DSHS Commissioner Jennifer Shuford, MD, MPH.<\/p>\n
Alternative broadband services\u2014 including cellular, microwave or satellite technology\u2014 are acceptable under the agreement as long as they meet the definition of broadband under the Texas Government Code.<\/p>\n
The agreement stays the proceedings in the camp operators’ lawsuit until March 1, 2027, according to the DSHS.\u00a0<\/p>\n
In 2025, Texas lawmakers passed Senate Bill 1, also known as the “Heaven\u2019s 27 Camp Safety Act,” and House Bill 1, known as the “Youth CAMPER Act,” following the deadly flash flood at Camp Mystic<\/a> in Kerr County that claimed the lives of 27 campers and counselors.<\/p>\n The bills require youth camps to add several safety measures, including:<\/p>\n\n