Senate Bill No. 30, introduced by Senator McMath, aims to establish a regulatory framework for the establishment and relocation of recreational vehicle (RV) dealerships in Louisiana. The bill enacts R.S. 32:1270.30.1, which outlines the procedures for applying for a new RV dealer's license or relocating an existing dealership. It mandates that the Louisiana Motor Vehicle Commission notify existing dealerships that sell the same line of RVs within the proposed dealership's community or territory. These existing dealerships have the right to protest the application if they believe it will adversely affect their business. The bill also specifies the conditions under which protests can be lodged, including a defined radius for objections based on the type of RV being sold.
Additionally, the proposed law includes provisions for the commission to consider the financial impact on both the applicant and existing dealerships when determining whether to grant a license. It establishes a timeline for the objection process and requires a hearing if a protest is filed. Notably, the bill exempts existing dealerships with valid dealer agreements as of August 1, 2025, from these new regulations. The law is set to take effect on August 1, 2025, thereby providing a structured approach to managing the growth of RV dealerships while protecting the interests of existing businesses in the market.