Washington state lawmakers have enacted HB 2711, a measure that delays implementation of an 8% luxury tax on motorhomes for six months, following advocacy efforts led by RV dealers.
Governor Ferguson signed the bill into law on March 31, with the delay set to take effect July 1 and remain in place through December 31.
The delay provides temporary relief to RV dealers, consumers, and related businesses that would have been affected by the tax, which industry stakeholders argued would have broader economic consequences beyond high-end purchases. The measure creates a window for policymakers to reassess the structure and long-term impact of the tax.
According to a News and Insights report of RVIA on April 2, the tax—initially positioned as targeting luxury goods—would have disproportionately affected middle-income households that use RV travel as a more affordable alternative to hotels and airfare.
The six-month pause is intended to allow further evaluation of these impacts and consideration of potential revisions.
Washington’s RV sector represents a significant portion of the state’s economy, generating approximately $3 billion in economic output and supporting more than 13,000 jobs across more than 1,200 businesses.
RVIA supported the effort, citing the importance of aligning industry data with legislative decision-making.
The association also noted that while HB 2711 offers short-term relief, further action will be needed to establish a permanent solution.
The passage of HB 2711 highlights the role of coordinated advocacy at the state level and its impact on shaping policies affecting the RV market and outdoor recreation economy.
RVIA, with offices in the Washington, D.C. area and Elkhart, Indiana, serves as the primary trade organization representing the $140 billion RV industry. Its membership includes more than 500 manufacturers and component and aftermarket suppliers, which collectively produce 98% of all recreational vehicles made in the United States and approximately 60% of RVs produced globally.
The association works to unify stakeholders across the RV sector, aligning manufacturers, suppliers, and partners under a single industry voice. Through collaboration with its members, the organization supports initiatives aimed at advancing the industry while promoting growth and innovation throughout the broader outdoor recreation market.