OHI, the national association representing RV parks, campgrounds, and glamping businesses, has launched a statewide campaign urging Wisconsin campground owners and seasonal campers to support a forthcoming legislative clarification to Act 12.
The proposed measure is aimed at ensuring seasonal campers’ personal property is exempt from taxation under changes set to take effect in 2024.
Set to be introduced in September by Rep. Kevin Petersen (R-Waupaca) and Sen. Rachael Cabral-Guevara (R-Appleton), the bill will affirm the state legislature’s original intent in repealing the personal property tax.
The clarification would ensure that property left by seasonal campers at licensed campgrounds receives the same tax-exempt status as other personal property outlined in Act 12.
OHI is working alongside the Wisconsin Association of Campground Owners (WACO) to mobilize grassroots support across the state.
The organization is calling on campground owners and their campers to submit letters to their legislators.
To support the effort, OHI has made two customizable letters available through its advocacy action center—one for campground owners and staff, and another for seasonal campers. Participants are encouraged to submit the letters online and share the links broadly within their networks.
The letter for campground owners can be submitted through this link, while the letter for seasonal campers is available here.
“OHI has been focused on this fix from the beginning when Jim Button, chair of OHI’s Board of Directors and owner of Evergreen Campsites in Wild Rose, Wisconsin, first raised it at the local level,” said David Basler, CSO and SVP of government affairs for OHI.
“Once this action is taken, it will translate to substantial tax savings for campgrounds and seasonal campers in Wisconsin,” Basler added.
The association has framed the campaign as a two-phase effort. The initial push aims to build momentum with legislators before the bill is introduced.
A second round of advocacy is planned for when the bill officially reaches the floor in September.
“Our highest priority is the well-being of Wisconsin campground owners and operators, and that’s why making sure this comes to fruition is so important,” said Scott Kollock, owner of Vista Royalle Campground and president of WACO.
“Tackling issues together as a united front is the best way to see success. We’re looking forward to seeing this across the finish line with OHI and the state of Wisconsin,” Kollock added.