flooding

A group of parents whose children died in the July 4 floods claim in a federal lawsuit that Camp Mystic's emergency instructions directed kids to stay in cabins even though state law requires evacuation plans for camps.

The lawsuit by Catherine and Will Steward, parents of Cecilia “Cile” Steward, argues the family who owns and operates the camp should “never be responsible for children again.”

Several court hearings and policies affecting education, health and more will roll out in the new year.

Kansas was one of a handful of states that aided Texas agencies in recovery and rescue.

Texas created a $1.4 billion fund to help pay for projects to guard against destructive flooding. But after learning that so many local communities turned down the money, two lawmakers who approved the program acknowledged it was flawed.

Residents are still working to rebuild nearly five months deadly flash floods swept through Central Texas.

Advocates are questioning why so many applicants from the flood-ravaged county have not received federal disaster help. Nonprofits are trying to fill in the gaps.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said Camp Mystic leaders would be invited to testify before the committees, as part of what Speaker Dustin Burrows said would be a "comprehensive and thorough review."

During a Friday state hearing, parents of July 4 flood victims said camps should prioritize the safety even if costs are high.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott took action on 14 bills Wednesday, signing all but one into law. Among those signed were measures aimed at increasing access to ivermectin and allowing private citizens to sue out-of-state abortion pill prescribers.