Can I advertise my products or services without violating truth-in-advertising laws in Oregon? What are the requirements?

Truth-in-Advertising Laws in Oregon

Oregon has truth-in-advertising laws that prohibit false, misleading, or deceptive advertising. These laws are enforced by the Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ) [ORRS 646.605][ORRS 646.608].

Requirements for Advertising in Oregon

To avoid violating truth-in-advertising laws in Oregon, advertisers must ensure that their advertisements are truthful and not misleading. Advertisements must not make false claims or omit important information that would affect a consumer’s decision to purchase a product or service. Advertisers must also be able to substantiate any claims made in their advertisements [ORRS 646.608].

Prohibited Advertising Practices in Oregon

The following are examples of advertising practices that are prohibited in Oregon:

• False or misleading statements [ORRS 646.605]
• Omission of material information [ORRS 646.605]
• Use of deceptive representations or designations of geographic origin [ORRS 646.605]
• Use of deceptive representations or designations of affiliation, connection, or association with a person or organization [ORRS 646.605]
• Use of deceptive representations or designations of sponsorship, approval, or certification [ORRS 646.605]
• Use of bait advertising [ORRS 646.608]
• Use of negative option plans [ORRS 646.608]

Conclusion

To advertise products or services in Oregon without violating truth-in-advertising laws, advertisers must ensure that their advertisements are truthful and not misleading. Advertisers must also avoid prohibited advertising practices such as false or misleading statements, omission of material information, and bait advertising. For more information, please refer to [ORRS 646.605] and [ORRS 646.608].

[ORRS 646.605]: [ORRS 646.608]:

Jurisdiction

Oregon

• General