2013 Oregon Revised Statutes
Volume : 05 - State Government, Government Procedures, Land Use
Chapter 180 - Attorney General; Department of Justice
Section 180.545 - Plain language standards; approval; fees.

(1) The agency to whom a consumer contract is submitted under ORS 180.540 shall review the contract to determine whether it complies with plain language standards. A consumer contract complies with plain language standards if it:

(a) Uses words that convey meanings clearly and directly;

(b) Uses the present tense and active voice whenever possible;

(c) Primarily uses simple sentences;

(d) Defines only those words that cannot be properly explained or qualified in the text;

(e) Explains at the beginning that the form is a contract between parties;

(f) Uses margins adequate for ease in reading; and

(g) Uses frequent section headings, in a narrative format, to help locate provisions.

(2) If the agency determines that the consumer contract complies with the standards in subsection (1) of this section, the agency shall certify to that effect to the seller or extender of credit who submitted the contract for review.

(3) An agency reviewing contracts under this section shall charge a reasonable fee for reviewing each consumer contract. The agency may require payment of the fee when the contract is submitted for review. Fees received under this section shall be disposed of as follows:

(a) Fees received by the Department of Justice shall be credited to the Department of Justice Operating Account.

(b) Fees received by the Director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services shall be credited to the Consumer and Business Services Fund. [1985 c.587 §§2,7,10]

Note: See note under 180.540.