Texas lawmakers are stepping in to support summer camps by removing a requirement for fiber optic internet. This change comes after 19 camps filed a lawsuit, arguing that such a mandate is too tough to meet.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and House Speaker Dustin Burrows announced this decision, highlighting that reliable internet can be provided through other methods. Patrick and Burrows mentioned, “There may be means other than fiber to provide reliable, redundant internet access.”
For summer camps in Texas to operate, they usually need to get licensed by the Department of State Health Services. This involves submitting an emergency action plan, following safety protocols, and having a solid communication system for emergencies.
The push for fiber optic internet started after a tragic incident during a July 4 flood in the Texas Hill Country, which resulted in the loss of 25 lives, including campers and counselors. Emergency responders had difficulty accessing vital information due to downed phone lines and weak cell signals.
The lawsuit filed by the camps, including popular ones like Camp Champions and Camp Longhorn, argues that the fiber optic mandate doesn’t actually enhance safety and could keep them from opening. They reported receiving outrageous quotes for installation that could reach over $1 million, plus ongoing fees.
This requirement didn’t account for rural camps, where such internet might not even be available or is prohibitively expensive. If the state rolls back this law, it’s unclear whether the lawsuit will proceed.
In a broader context, many summer camps have been adapting to technology needs in recent years, but this recent push highlights the challenges they face. According to a 2022 survey by the American Camp Association, over 80% of camps reported needing to update their tech infrastructure, yet budget constraints often stand in their way.
As we look ahead to the 90th Legislative session in 2027, lawmakers will likely continue discussing how to balance safety with the realities camps face. For now, the path seems clearer for these camps to operate this summer without the heavy burden of tech requirements.
For more on this topic, you can read the Texas Tribune’s coverage here.
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Dan Patrick,Department of State Health Services,Dustin Burrows,Texas Hill Country,Texas Legislature,Travis County
