Well, the title is not quite accurate. Effective January 1, 2025 California has put in place new emission rules, effectively banning the sale of most RVs in the state. In total six Blue states have joined in banning motor homes exceeding 8,500 lbs. gross vehicle weight.
California has certain emission requirements, and these have been extended to include RVs. Other states joining this ban on RV sales include Washington, Oregon, New York, Massachusetts and New Jersey. Any RV sold must meet the emission requirements of the California Air Resources Board (CARB).
The Recreation Vehicle Manufacturers Association (RVIA) sent a long letter to California pleading for a review of the new rule. The RVIA stated:
“In 2023, motorhome manufacturers shipped a total of 5,898 motorhomes to California, as compared with the 134,956 Medium- and Heavy-Duty trucks and tractors sold in California last year....
Motorhomes represent only 11.8 million miles versus the 4.8 billion miles for medium- and heavy-duty trucks, making it obvious that an exemption for motorhomes will not have an adverse impact on environmental concerns.”
In fact, only the smallest Class B RV's will be permitted under the new rules; those with gross vehicle weight of less than 8,500 lbs. I've concluded that California really doesn't like RVers.
What to Do?
As an RVer, I've made the decision to avoid spending my travel or vacation money in these states. Partly because I can rent a pickup or similar vehicle in the state which exceeds the gross weight of my RV but skirts the rules. That is ridiculous as the purpose of these rules is clean air. Typical political BS and virtue signaling.
Considering the high costs of gas in California, the crime, homelessness and filth I think my money is better spent elsewhere.
Adios Blue states, I'll never miss you!
(c) 2024 N. Retzke
