Oregon

Under Oregon law, all contracts with performing rights organizations (PROs) must be in writing, signed by both parties, and include:

• The proprietor’s name, business address, and the business location covered by the contract,

• The name of the PRO,

• The duration of the contract,

• The rate schedule and royalty terms, including any sliding scale or adjustment provisions.

Contract and Conduct Requirements

PROs must provide a contract template to the Secretary of State, though the state does not verify its legal compliance. PROs may not operate or collect royalties in Oregon unless authorized to do business in the state (unless exempt by law).

PROs and their agents are prohibited from:

• Entering a business to discuss contracts without first identifying themselves and stating their purpose

• Using abusive or obscene language

• Contacting proprietors outside business hours or offsite unless agreed

• Communicating with a proprietor after being directed to their attorney—unless the attorney fails to respond for 60+ days

• Engaging in coercive, disruptive, unfair, or deceptive conduct

• Failing to meet their legal obligations under ORS 647.705 and 647.710

Remedies for Violations

Violations allow any person to seek actual damages, injunctions, attorney fees, and other legal remedies. Courts may also impose civil fines up to $1,000 per willful violation. These provisions operate alongside other state, federal, and common laws.

The statute does not apply to:

• FCC-licensed broadcasters,

• Cable operators, programmers, or transmission services

• Music used in synchronization with audiovisual works

PROs are still allowed to investigate music use and inform proprietors of their legal obligations.