Lead by Example with Reasonable Overnight Pricing

Update Sept. 10, 2020 - The Governor issued today Executive Order 20-42, declaring an abnormal market disruption as a result of the statewide wildfire emergency. This order is in response to reports of unusual increases in lodging rates for Oregonians who have evacuated fire areas and concern that the wildfire emergency may prevent ready availability of other essential consumer goods and services.

Oregon lodging operators have the opportunity to showcase our best in service and hospitality as we open our doors to displaced families needing shelter in the wake of wildfires. This is not the time for unreasonable price hikes as families and loved ones seek shelter at a time of crisis. Oregon’s hospitality industry answered the call for emergency responders fighting COVID around Oregon with over 300 lodging properties signing up to assist in our collective effort to mitigate the spread of the virus.
 
We are being called to action again by offering competitive pricing in our markets for those needing overnight shelters and to provide families and loved ones with a rate they can rely on as they determine their next steps. Be a leader in this space. Showcase what it means to bring Oregon hospitality to your guests and be a part of the rallying cry in a time of crisis by extending some comfort and certainty at your place of business for those you serve.
 
Be advised the Governor has initiated an Executive Order directing the Attorney General to prosecute price gouging. Let’s step up and prove this particular executive order is unnecessary because of the leadership our lodging operators provide in times of crisis.
 
How You Can Help:

Make sure to reach out to your local destination management and marketing organizations to provide information on the availability of rooms at your location. It is crucial that the Office of Emergency Management have the latest information regarding available rooms for overnight stays at reasonable rates. Look for more information coming soon on ways you can help from Oregon’s Office of Emergency Management.

Frequently Asked Questions from Oregon DOJ Consumer Protection:

What is price gouging?

• In Oregon, it is unlawful to offer or sell essential consumer goods or services at an “unconscionably excessive price” after the Governor declares that an abnormal disruption of the market exists.

When is a price “unconscionably excessive”?

• On its face, a price is unconscionably excessive if it is 15 percent or more higher than either (1) the price the merchant sold the same item for immediately before the market disruption commenced, or (2) the price the same or similar goods sold for in or near the area covered by the declaration immediately before the market disruption commenced.

Are there exceptions to price gouging, and if so - what are they?

• Merchants and wholesalers are prohibited from increasing their prices 15% or more above the amount immediately prior to the governor’s declaration. However, it may not be considered price gouging if the increase is attributable of any of the following:
  • Additional costs imposed by suppliers.
  • Added expenses for the business to procure the essential goods or services due to the emergency. For example, the supplies had to be airlifted into an otherwise inaccessible area.
  • Increased internal costs or expenses related to the declaration such as overtime pay, additional staff, security, distribution, etc.
  • Scheduled price or cost increases unrelated to the abnormal disruption of the market.

What can I do if I suspect price gouging?

• If you suspect price gouging, try to get as much information as possible before reporting. Report suspected violations to the Attorney General’s Price Gouging Hotline at (503) 378-8442 or submit a complaint online at oregonconsumer.gov and attach your pictures, receipt or other information.

Sincerely,
 
Jason Brandt
President & CEO
Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association