I have rented dozens of vehicles in Oregon, with my spouse as a free driver per state law (ORS 646A.140). California, Iowa, Missouri, Nevada, New York, and Wisconsin have similar laws. I've never had a problem before and now Hertz is driving me crazy.

When picking up the car I mentioned that my wife would also be driving and did they need to see anything from her. Every time previously, with any and all rental agencies, the answer has been "Nope, don't need to see a license or sign anything, spouse is automatically a driver." This time I was told "No, she needs to show us her license and sign." Not a big deal, we did it. No mention of any fee, and why would there be?

I return the car a week later, and when I get the emailed receipt there's a $94.50 additional driver fee on there. I called and have had two "local" Hertz reps claim not to know what I'm talking about. I'm awaiting a return call from the manager.

So:
By law my spouse should be a free driver without any additional paperwork.
Hertz rep claimed this wasn't true and forced me to fill out paperwork making her an Additional Driver.
No mention was made of a fee.
Hertz claims that there is always a fee for Additional Drivers.
I just want my $94.50 back. What's the best course of action here short of walking into the office with a lawyer and slamming down a copy of the Oregon Revised Statutes?