OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Josh Cantrell, R-Kingston, has been named the 2026 Public Official of the Year by the Oklahoma Floodplain Managers Association (OFMA). The award is based on Cantrell's efforts to pass House Bill 1675, the state's first statewide youth camp safety law focusing on severe weather preparedness and emergency planning.

The legislation requires all youth camps and outdoor programs to conduct a site-specific hazard assessment and develop an emergency action plan by the end of the year. 

"While this legislation was born out of unimaginable tragedy, I'm glad that something positive might come from it that can benefit future campers," Cantrell said. "I'm thankful to be recognized for my efforts in championing this bill, but the praise belongs to a much wider audience. Still, I thank the folks at the Oklahoma Floodplain Managers Association for giving me this award. I will treasure it, and it will stand as a reminder of the souls we lost that day." 

Cantrell received the award at a banquet help Sept. 22 at the Osage Casino & Resort in the Skyline Center in Tulsa.

HB 1675 was inspired after the deaths of 27 girls, now known as "Heaven's 27," who lost their lives during flooding at Camp Mystic in Hunt, TX in 2025. Cantrell's legislation updates procedures for how camps are to receive emergency alerts and report to parents and local emergency management officials as well as staff training requirements. 

"We want summer camp to be a fun and safe experience for all involved," Cantrell said. "This legislation should help."

OFMA consists of professionals who encourage and support flood-safe development and flood mitigation through promotion of sound floodplain management practices and the natural and cultural benefits of the floodplain. They also offer education and certification to floodplain management professionals. 

"Saving lives and reducing property loss from floods are our ultimate goals," association materials read.