PROTECTING LOCAL LODGING TAX DOLLARS

Local Lodging Tax Watchdog: ORLA’s advocacy ensures local lodging taxes, or Transient Lodging Taxes (TLTs), are used as state laws intend—to promote tourism and support related facilities. For over two decades, Oregon statutes have functioned effectively, with lodging businesses generating over $220 million annually for local governments. Unlike other businesses exempt from sales tax, lodging operators collect these taxes on temporary accommodations, underscoring the need for industry-specific reinvestment of these funds. 

PROTECTING TLT REVENUES FOR TOURISM PROMOTION 
ORLA is working closely with our leadership teams and operators to review how local lodging taxes are being spent in jurisdictions around Oregon. Turnover within government positions results in the need for ongoing education of the state rules governing local lodging taxes.

• Read ORLA's Position on Local Lodging Taxes in Oregon. 
• Read The Truth About Tourism, Taxes, and Community Investment
  
• ​Watch ORLA's explainer video on how local lodging taxes must be expended in accordance with Oregon's state law. ​This video has proven to be a helpful resource to help educate newly appointed local elected leaders or city administrative staff.

Back in August 2021, ORLA won a lawsuit against the City of Bend which helped cement our legal standing in holding local governments accountable for how they expend local lodging tax dollars. ​Our successful win in court at both the Circuit Court and Oregon Court of Appeals level has helped reiterate the association's relevance as a watchdog for our lodging members and the broader tourism industry. 

ORLA Video: Local Lodging Tax Defined

UNPACKING HOW TLT PROMOTES TOURISM 

Travel Oregon publishes research on local lodging taxes in partnership with ECONorthwest. Read How Local Lodging Taxes are Spent in Oregon. Visit Travel Oregon's industry website to access the Oregon Transient Occupancy Tax by Jurisdiction.