Texas summer camps inched closer to opening Thursday following a deal with the state over a new law requiring the installation of fiber optic internet networks.

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Nearly 20 camps sued to block the law, arguing that it did not make their properties safer, violated state law and would have cost millions of dollars, particularly in rural areas with spotty cell service.

Under the agreement, the state will now allow camps with alternatives to fiber, including cellular or satellite technology, such as Starlink, to operate.

The agreement comes two days after Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Speaker of the House Dustin Burrows said they supported delaying the law and revisiting the issue when the Texas Legislature meets next year.

“This 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,” Texas Health Commissioner Jennifer Shuford said in a statement.

Camp directors — some of whom said installing fiber would have exceeded $1 million — applauded the decision.

 Brian Anderson, executive director of Camp Peniel in Marble Falls, said in a statement that “camps are places where kids grow, build confidence, and form lifelong friendships, and this outcome makes sure those experiences continue this summer.”

Paul Biles, executive director of Tejas Camp and Retreat in Giddings between Austin and Houston, said the deal “allows Texas camps to focus on their mission while lawmakers take the time needed to finalize a workable, long-term statewide solution.”

The agreement delays the camps’ lawsuit until March 1, 2027.

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Camps are working to meet a slew of new safety requirements passed last year after floods killed 25 girls and two counselors at Camp Mystic in Hill Country. Only nine Texas summer camps are licensed to operate this summer with fewer than three weeks remaining before the season is set to begin. 

About 290 camps are working to obtain a license, although the Department of State Health Services said this week that camps will be permitted to operate on existing licenses while their applications are pending.

To obtain a license, both day and overnight camps must submit detailed emergency plans to the state’s health agency. Camp directors say the process has been chaotic and cumbersome this year as both sides adjust to the new processes.

Eddie Walker, president of the Christian Camp and Conference Association of Texas, said camps are fielding daily calls from parents and group leaders looking for information. 

Walker, who is also the executive director of Mt. Lebanon Camp in Cedar Hill just south of Dallas, said camps have worked tirelessly to ensure they meet new safety laws, including installing emergency warning and public address systems and providing mandatory safety training to campers. 

With the fiber issue resolved for now, Walker said he is hopeful the licensing process will move forward.

“Camps are ready,” Walker said, “licenses are not.”

Related: Only 9 Texas summer camps approved to open as deadline nears. Check your camp’s status

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