TTA Applauds Passage of Caverns Liability Protection Bill HB 1130

Austin, TX (May 30, 2025) — The Texas Travel Alliance (TTA) is proud to announce the successful passage and signing into law on May 29, 2025 of House Bill 1130 — legislation that provides essential liability protections for commercial cavern operators across Texas. This new law supports the continued growth of Texas’s outdoor tourism industry while ensuring safety and accountability.

HB 1130, authored by Representative Carrie Isaac, and the Senate companion SB 847, authored by Senator Donna Campbell, establish Chapter 75C of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code. This chapter limits the civil liability of cavern entities—businesses that own or operate natural caverns open to the public for recreational or educational purposes—when proper safety signage is posted. The law protects cavern operators from frivolous lawsuits related to inherent risks of cavern activities, while still holding them accountable for negligence or intentional harm.

“This legislation is a major step forward for the small business owners and operators of Texas’s beautiful array of show caves and caverns” said Erika Boyd, President and CEO of the Texas Travel Alliance. “We thank Senator Campbell and Representative Isaac for their leadership and commitment to protecting responsible tourism operators. And we are especially grateful to Governor Greg Abbott for his support and for signing this bill into law. Each of these lawmakers’ recognition of the importance of preserving and promoting Texas’s natural attractions is deeply appreciated.”

The Texas Travel Alliance represents a wide range of tourism businesses, including many that operate or promote access to Texas’s unique natural caverns. The passage of HB 1130 ensures these businesses can continue to offer safe, educational, and adventurous experiences to visitors while managing legal risks responsibly.

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The Texas Travel Alliance is the voice of the travel and tourism industry in Texas. We advocate for policies that help our industry grow and thrive. We provide professional development opportunities to elevate our industry’s leaders. And we create connections that will help our members flourish and succeed. The travel industry has a $193 billion impact on the Texas economy and enables all other business sectors to thrive and grow. The travel industry helps cultivate a quality of life for all Texans. That’s why we believe Life is Better in a State of Travel! For more information about the Texas Travel Alliance: www.texastravelalliance.org.