We respectfully ask Governor Greg Abbott to veto the Camp Safety Bill as currently written, allowing legislators to focus on improving the bill to ensure camper safety. The Texas Senate and House have only heard from the bereaved families. Out of deep respect for the parents of those who lost children on July 4, it has been difficult for others to voice their opposition and concerns with the current bill. More due diligence is needed.

We all grieve the loss of 135 people who tragically passed away in the Central Texas Flood on July 4, 2025, including 28 on Camp Mystic grounds. Decisions about rebuilding cabins will impact the future of Texas camps. A plan needs to be developed with more time and reflection; the bill has been rushed and requires more thoughtful consideration. Legislators should require additional education on floodplains and flood zones, and further analysis is necessary in the wake of the recent flood. Additionally, there are concerns about some of the details in the bill, including requiring campers to have access to roofs by ladders during a storm. More thought needs to be spent on developing a safe plan that does not add to the danger. Haste in pushing SB1 into law too quickly could result in overregulation that could harm campers and our camps. 

All impacted summer camps across the State of Texas deserve the chance to have input. Legislators should consult waterway and flood specialists and ensure that Kerr County and Guadalupe River authorities have input. Child safety should always come first, but the impact on the livelihoods of residents and businesses who depend on summer camps should also be considered. These can all happen simultaneously.

Please veto SB1, the Heaven's 27 Camp Safety Act, to slow down and give all vested Texans a chance to speak.