LODGING - 4117.3
Legal Authority
Government Code section 4475
Government Code section 8314(c) – (Violation)
Definitions
Short-Term Rental
Residential property that is rented to a visitor for fewer than thirty (30) days through a centralized online platform whereby the rental is advertised and payments for rental are securely processed.
Policy
State employees on official business are required to make lodging reservations through the Statewide Travel Program (STP), with the exception of short-term rentals. Reservations outside of STP will not receive the state’s contracted discounted rates and are a violation of SAM Section 4117. Use of the STP for personal use is prohibited. Any personal use could lead to civil penalties. (Gov. Code section 8314(c)).
Lodging reservations shall be made with “Most Preferred” or “Preferred” designations in the online booking tool and/or during a telephonic reservation request, provided that the lodging expenses are in accordance with policies published by the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR).
In the event a “Most Preferred” or “Preferred” designated hotel is not available, state employees shall reserve lodging in accordance with state policy and published lodging maximum rates.
Responsibilities
Employees:
Traveling employees should continue to make reasonable efforts to secure lodging that is in the best interest of the state.
Fleet and Asset Management Unit:
Review and approve “Most Preferred” and “Preferred” designated hotels via STP’s contracted travel agency.