The House of Representatives recently passed the Transparency in Charges for Key Events Ticketing Act, also known as the TICKET Act, in an effort to increase price transparency for consumers buying event tickets. The bill would require sellers to disclose the total cost of a ticket, including fees, and whether the ticket is speculative or not currently in the seller’s possession. Additionally, deceptive websites used by secondary sellers would be prohibited, and sellers would be required to provide refunds for canceled events. The act has bipartisan support and now moves on to the Senate for further consideration. Lawmakers have been working to address consumer discontent toward the ticketing industry, with various bills and laws aimed at increasing transparency and preventing unfair practices.
The TICKET Act was first introduced by Rep. Gus Bilirakis, R-Fla., in June 2023 and was referred to the House Energy and Commerce Committee for review. Bilirakis, along with other committee members, released a joint statement praising the passage of the bill. They highlighted the importance of restoring fairness and transparency to the ticket marketplace, stating that the legislation aims to enhance the customer experience of buying event tickets online. Ticket advocacy groups have commended the House for passing the bill and are calling on the Senate to do the same. While there is currently no floor vote scheduled in the Senate, supporters of the bill are working to push for quick passage and ultimate enactment into law.
Consumer advocates have also praised recent state laws that further protect ticket buyers from predatory sellers. Maryland and Minnesota have recently passed laws banning speculative tickets and requiring the disclosure of all fees in ticket prices. The Coalition for Ticket Fairness (CTF) believes that legislation like the TICKET Act will level the playing field for fans seeking tickets to live events, providing them with more information and transparency during the buying process. Additionally, the National Independent Venue Association has called on Congress to adopt comprehensive ticketing reform legislation similar to the Fans First Act, further protecting consumers from deceptive ticketing practices.
Artists have also been vocal in supporting legislation aimed at making ticket buying more fair for fans. Over 250 artists signed a letter of support for the Fans First Act, urging Congress to combat predatory resellers and the deceptive practices of secondary platforms. Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. emphasized the importance of the TICKET Act and urged the Senate to incorporate the provisions of the Fans First Act into a comprehensive ticket reform package. The aim is to provide transparency and protection for artists and their fans, ultimately creating a more equitable and consumer-friendly ticketing industry. Lawmakers are working to address the challenges and frustrations faced by consumers when purchasing event tickets, with the hope of creating a fairer and more transparent marketplace for all involved.
