As summer approaches, Six Flags Over Texas says it will no longer accept cash and requires chaperones for guests 15 years of age and younger.

Six Flags Over Texas has announced significant changes for the summer season to enhance security and maintain a family-friendly environment. The Arlington-based theme park will transition to a cashless policy, accepting only card payments including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, or debit cards. To accommodate guests preferring cash, the park will provide kiosks to convert cash into prepaid debit cards, ensuring that all visitors can still enjoy the park's features without carrying credit or debit cards. In tandem with the cashless initiative, Six Flags has reintroduced a chaperone policy to manage the behavior of younger guests. Individuals 15 years old or younger must be accompanied by a responsible adult, aged 21 or older, if they wish to enter or stay in the park after 4 p.m. This measure, which requires chaperones to present a valid government ID at entry, limits each chaperone to overseeing a maximum of 10 juveniles, and mandates their presence within the park throughout the visit. The policy will apply to all events, including those attended by season pass holders, and aims to curtail any incidents of unruly behavior noted in recent years at major entertainment venues. Interestingly, the community response to these policies as expressed through social media revealed a mixed bag of support and criticism. Some applauded the measures, citing the need for stricter supervision and accountability of younger visitors, while others lamented the perceived restriction on teenagers' independence and leisure. From an analytical standpoint, Six Flags' decision can be viewed as a proactive approach to address increasing security concerns and unruly behavior, thereby ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all patrons. By limiting cash transactions, the park may also reduce theft risks and streamline operations, offering faster and more efficient service to guests. However, the policy could arguably limit accessibility for those who rely on cash, while the chaperoning requirement may reduce the number of teenage visitors, who often form a significant part of the park's clientele. Balancing safety with inclusivity presents a complex challenge for Six Flags, reflecting broader societal debates on freedom, security, and youth engagement.