That Was the Year that Was: Reflecting on Top Issues for RVDA in 2025

FAIRFAX, VA – As 2025 draws to a close, the RV Dealers Association (RVDA) is reflecting on a year of significant progress, advocacy wins, and member-focused initiatives that will shape the industry in 2026 and beyond.

Legislative Success: Floor Plan Tax Fix for Travel Trailers
Thanks to the combined efforts of RVDA, RVIA, individual RV dealers, and industry stakeholders, Congress passed a Reconciliation Bill earlier this year amending Internal Revenue Code §163(j). The amendment expands the definition of floor plan financing indebtedness to include debt used to finance travel trailers and campers designed for recreational, camping, or seasonal use. This long-sought fix provides meaningful relief for RV dealerships engaged in the sale of towable units.

RVDA joined the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) in applauding Secretary Burgum and the Department of the Interior for issuing a Secretarial Order to implement the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act. The framework will improve access, modernize recreation permitting, and expand broadband availability on public lands.

Leadership & Recognition at Convention/Expo
At the RV Dealers Convention/Expo in November, Bob Been of Blue Compass RV in Fort Lauderdale, FL, was elected 2026 RVDA Chairman of the Board. The association also honored Ron Shepherd of Camperland of Oklahoma in Tulsa with the James B. Summers Award, RVDA’s highest recognition. Craig Kirby of RVIA received the RVDA Titan Award for his contributions to the industry.

New Online RV Learning Center Training Resources
In 2025, the Mike Molino RV Learning Center expanded its impact with the launch of its fifth fixed operations online training course, designed to prepare the next generation of Service Managers. This new program builds on the four established courses that include professional development for service writers, parts professionals, and warranty administrators all aimed strengthening RV dealership performance.

Convention/Expo Attendance Grows; 2026 Dates Announced
The 2025 RV Dealers Convention/Expo at Paris Las Vegas concluded with registered attendance of 1,715 dealers, exhibitors, and industry partners – a slight increase over 2024. RVDA encourages members to mark their calendars for next year’s event, scheduled for November 9–13, 2026, once again at Paris Las Vegas. Details are available at: www.rvda.org/convention

Dealership employees and industry stakeholders can continue learning through the on-demand portion of the RV Dealers Convention/Expo, available online 24/7 through January 31, 2026. Fifteen workshops are currently accessible, including sessions not offered during the live event. This member service is provided free of charge to RVDA members.

Industry Relations: Board Reaffirms Position on New Model Introduction
In June, the RVDA Board of Directors reaffirmed its long-standing position on new model introduction, aligning with RVIA’s voluntary best practice that manufacturers make annual model year and major product design changes between June 1 and June 30 and available at https://rvda.myshowapp.com.

Dealer Satisfaction Index Honors Top Manufacturers
RVDA recognized 23 RV manufacturers/brands with Quality Circle Awards for achieving top scores in the 31st annual Dealer Satisfaction Index (DSI) survey. These brands received at least 15 dealer responses and scored 4.25 or higher on a 5-point scale in overall dealer satisfaction.

Member Services Expanded: Help Desk & Solution Center via Text
RVDA’s Help Desk & Solution Center, which provides timely information and assistance on dealer services and industry issues, is now accessible via text at (227) 254-8890. Members can also access specialized support from RVDA’s endorsed dispute and risk management provider, Better Vantage Point. More information is available at www.rvda.org
About RVDA
The RV Dealers Association (RVDA) is the national association representing RV retailers. Its members include RV dealers, rental operators, and service centers. RVDA works to promote the growth and welfare of the RV industry through education, advocacy, and member services.