In the dynamic landscape of the RV industry, advocacy plays a pivotal role in shaping legislation that impacts manufacturers, dealers, and enthusiasts alike.
The RV Industry Association (RVIA) has been at the forefront of these efforts, particularly through its Government Affairs team, which has outlined a comprehensive set of state legislative priorities for 2024.
These priorities include advocating for RV-friendly electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, establishing RV-specific franchise laws, upholding RV standards against misclassification of tiny homes, and supporting the creation and efforts of State Offices of Outdoor Recreation.
The RVIA’s Government Affairs team operates with a mission to protect and promote the interests of the RV industry at the state level. By engaging with state legislators, charging companies, site hosts, and other stakeholders, the team works tirelessly to ensure that the needs and concerns of the RV community are addressed.
In 2024, a significant focus has been placed on developing RV-friendly EV charging stations, emphasizing the importance of pull-through charging options to accommodate the unique needs of RVs, as per the News & Insights report of the RVIA.
Efforts to advocate for RV-specific franchise laws have been particularly notable in states such as Maryland, Ohio, Wisconsin, and Washington. These laws aim to provide consistency for manufacturers in developing and managing dealer agreements across states, offering reciprocal benefits for RV dealers.
Despite facing legislative hurdles, such as the failure of the Maryland franchise bill to pass in the previous session, the RVIA’s team continues to push for the passage of these critical pieces of legislation.
Another key area of advocacy involves upholding RV standards, especially in opposition to legislation that might incorrectly classify tiny homes as RVs. The team’s efforts have led to legislative revisions in states like Florida, where the definition of “movable tiny home” was removed from the park model RV definition, ensuring that RV standards are maintained.
The establishment of State Offices of Outdoor Recreation has also been a priority, with the RVIA supporting efforts to increase outdoor recreation participation. These offices play a crucial role in improving infrastructure and promoting the benefits of outdoor activities, which in turn supports the RV industry by encouraging increased participation in RVing.
The RVIA’s Government Affairs team not only navigates current legislative challenges but also adapts to changing landscapes to protect the interests of the RV industry. Their proactive monitoring of state legislation and regulations allows for quick advocacy when issues arise, such as small off-road engine regulations and diesel engine labeling.
Success stories, such as the unanimous approval of the Wisconsin franchise bill by the Wisconsin House, highlight the impact of the RVIA’s advocacy efforts. These achievements underscore the importance of the team’s work in creating a favorable legislative environment for the RV industry.
Looking ahead, the RVIA’s Government Affairs team has outlined future legislative goals and strategies to continue advocating for the RV industry. The importance of ongoing advocacy is clear, as it addresses new challenges and opportunities that arise within the industry.
The RV Industry Association’s Government Affairs team plays a critical role in advocating for state legislation that supports the RV industry. Their strategic approach to engagement, advocacy, and adaptation to legislative changes ensures that the interests of the RV community are well-represented.
As the RV industry continues to evolve, the importance of such advocacy efforts cannot be overstated, highlighting the need for continued support and participation from industry stakeholders.
The RV Industry Association is making big moves in 2024, teaming up with stakeholders to enhance RV sites and tech for a better RV experience ahead!