Legislation looks to revamp RV Show rules in Worcester County

January 27, 2025

Han Cechini,

WORCESTER COUNTY, Md. – Marylanders who love the recreational vehicle (RV) life may soon have more options to browse at the Ocean City RV Show.

Changing RV Show Rules

Only Maryland-based RV dealers may currently show off and sell their stuff at the big event. But with Senate Bill 79, out-of-state dealers would be able to get in on the action, as well—sort of.

“It would allow out-of-state RV dealers to display only, not sell, at the Ocean City RV Show,” explained bill sponsor State Senator Mary Beth Carozza (R-Md. District 38).

A “Win-Win”

Sen. Carozza said the RV lifestyle is only attracting increasing newcomers. She added this legislation could be a benefit for consumers and the local economy alike. A wider selection at the RV Show could create a bigger draw to the area. Sen. Carozza said that would benefit local hotels and restaurants.

“It would allow consumers to have a wider selection of products … To have an Ocean City RV Show that continues to draw attendees from 15 states and more to Ocean City can only be a win-win,” Sen. Carozza said.

Bill Returns Redone

This is not this legislation’s first time at the RV rodeo. Sen. Carozza said it was a struggle to get other state lawmakers to support previous versions of the bill.

In 2024, the bill passed unanimously of the State Senate. It was amended to a statewide piece of legislation in the House, Sen. Carozza said. When it reached Governor Wes Moore’s desk, he vetoed it.

Since then, Sen. Carozza said several changes have been made to the legislation. Now, it would only apply to Worcester County and includes safeguards to ensure out-of-state dealers are not selling their products on display at the RV Show. Reciprocity language has also been added, aiming to provide Marylander RV dealers the same benefits when visiting other states.

“I think the members saw that although the bill was vetoed last year, we made the necessary changes and kept it to a local bill. I would expect local courtesy from my colleagues,” Sen. Carozza said.