As the 119th Congress begins, the RV Industry Association’s (RVIA) Government Affairs team launched its federal legislative agenda 2025, addressing industry challenges and promoting policies.
The comprehensive plan outlines efforts to strengthen the RV sector, advocate for outdoor recreation, and address critical legislative and regulatory priorities.
According to a News and Insights report of RVIA, a key initiative for 2025 is the push for the Travel Trailer and Camper Tax Parity Act, aimed at amending tax code provisions that currently place towable RVs at a disadvantage.
Unlike motorhomes, interest deductions for towable RVs are limited to 30% of interest expenses, despite making up 85% of the market. Past efforts by Representatives Rudy Yakym and Dina Titus, alongside Senators Joni Ernst and Angus King, have sought to rectify this disparity.
The association also recognizes the importance of strong relationships within the legislative and executive branches to advance its priorities. With the bipartisan RV Caucus co-chaired by Yakym and Titus, the association aims to elevate awareness of industry concerns.
Additionally, collaboration with groups like the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable and the Alliance for Automotive Innovation will amplify advocacy efforts. These partnerships are expected to play a pivotal role in ensuring the industry’s interests are represented in Washington.
Another pressing concern is the reauthorization of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), a trade program that lapsed in 2020, leading to significant financial strain on RV manufacturers.
The program’s absence has resulted in an estimated $1.5 million in additional duties each month, particularly impacting the cost and availability of IndoneAsian lauan plywood, a critical material for RV construction.
The association is also addressing the “de minimis” loophole under Section 321, which allows foreign entities to bypass tariffs and safety standards, disproportionately affecting U.S. businesses.
Additionally, federal regulations and tariffs remain a focal point for the Government Affairs team, which is closely monitoring changes that could affect RV manufacturers and suppliers. By providing members with timely guidance and support, the association seeks to mitigate potential adverse effects while ensuring compliance.
Another part of the agenda is advocating for the reauthorization of the Great American Outdoors Act, a landmark bill set to expire this year. Enacted in 2020, the Act has been instrumental in allocating up to $9.5 billion for critical infrastructure improvements across national parks and public lands.
Amplifying the voices of industry members remains a priority through events such as Advocacy Day during RVs Move America Week, scheduled for June 2025. This event will bring stakeholders to Washington, D.C., to engage directly with lawmakers and share firsthand accounts of how proposed policies affect their businesses. Such interactions are designed to strengthen the connection between policymakers and the RV industry, fostering informed decision-making.
In the coming weeks, the Government Affairs team will also unveil its state-level legislative priorities.
