The Nebraska Senate Committee on Transportation and Telecommunications heard testimony supporting Legislative Bill 1121, which would establish state-specific rules governing recreational vehicle (RV) manufacturer-dealer agreements.
The legislation would clarify the relationship between RV manufacturers and dealers, benefiting the state’s RV industry, consumers, and suppliers.
The bill is modeled on a 2020 framework approved by the RV Industry Association (RVIA) and RV Dealers Association.
According to a News and Insights report of RVIA, Michael Ochs, director of state government affairs for RVIA, testified in favor of LB 1121, urging committee members to approve the legislation.
“This bill will create a framework that accurately reflects the business practices of RV manufacturers and dealers,” Ochs said.
Senator Beau Ballard of District 21, the bill’s sponsor, also voiced support, along with Nick Staab of Rich & Sons RV in Grand Island and Andy Mullins of AC Nelson RV World in Omaha.
The president of the Nebraska New Car and Truck Dealers Association testified neutrally, noting that none of his members sell RVs, but indicated he had no objections to the bill.
LB 1121 would place one RV dealer and one RV manufacturer on the Nebraska Motor Vehicle Licensing Board and establish RV-specific rules separate from the automobile franchise law.
Proponents say certain automobile franchise provisions do not apply to the RV industry, which handles warranties, sales, and dealer relationships differently.
The legislation stems from negotiations between RVIA and Nebraska RV dealers in 2025. Supporters describe the bill as fair and reciprocal, not only covering dealers and manufacturers but also suppliers who provide written warranties directly to RV consumers.
Under LB 1121, suppliers would be required to treat dealers equitably in warranty matters, a key distinction from automobile regulations.
For more information about RVIA, visit their website here.