Goshen News: Legislation’s a Win for Industry, Elkhart Co. – RVBusiness – Breaking RV Industry News
EDITOR’S NOTE: The following is an an editorial from the Saturday, April 12 edition of The Goshen News.
On Friday, April 4, 2025, Gov. Mike Braun signed into law Indiana’s new RV-specific franchise legislation, Senate Bill 484, marking a pivotal moment for the state’s robust RV industry. With the bill set to take effect on July 1, Elkhart County — widely recognized as the RV capital of the world — stands to benefit from this forward-thinking legislation.
SB 484 promises to streamline and protect critical relationships between RV manufacturers and dealers. It seeks to balance the interests of manufacturers and dealers in the highly dynamic and growing RV market. This legislation establishes a comprehensive framework for their partnership, mandating a written manufacturer-dealer agreement and providing clear guidelines for termination, succession, and warranty provisions. The bill creates a well-defined system that encourages fairness and accountability.
Strengthening the integrity of business practices reduces the risk of costly disputes. This creates a more stable and collaborative environment for both manufacturers and dealers. The law further ensures that all parties have a clear understanding of their rights and obligations, enhancing transparency in the industry.
THIS LEGISLATION has garnered broad support from key stakeholders, including the RV Industry Association, the RV Indiana Council, and local RV dealers across the state. It is no surprise that this bill has resonated so strongly in Elkhart County, where the RV industry is a cornerstone of the local economy. Our community, with its deep ties to RV manufacturing, is poised to see positive economic impacts because of this legislation. By providing a clear and fair framework for the industry, SB 484 helps eliminates uncertainties that might otherwise hinder growth and innovation within the sector.
This law provides clear warranty terms and dealer protections, strengthening consumer confidence. Improved manufacturer-dealer relationships lead to more efficient production, better customer service, and enhanced quality control — all benefiting consumers.
REPUBLICAN LEGISLATORS Sen. Blake Doriot, Rep. Doug Miller, Rep. Joanna King and Rep. Dave Heine deserve recognition for sponsoring this important bill. Their leadership ensures Indiana remains a national leader in the RV industry.
SB 484 is a timely and essential step in modernizing the manufacturer-dealer relationship. This legislation promotes stability and growth, keeping the industry competitive and well-positioned for the future. With strong bipartisan support, it is a clear win for local businesses, consumers, and the future of RVs in Indiana.
