H.R.1402 - Transparency In Charges for Key Events Ticketing Act; TICKET Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1402, the TICKET Act, aims to increase transparency in event ticket sales. It requires ticket sellers to disclose the total ticket price, including all fees, upfront. The bill also bans speculative ticketing and mandates refunds for canceled or postponed events under certain conditions.
Expected Effects
The TICKET Act will likely lead to greater clarity for consumers regarding the true cost of event tickets. It may also reduce deceptive practices in the secondary ticket market. This could lead to a fairer marketplace for consumers seeking to purchase event tickets.
Potential Benefits
- Increased transparency in ticket pricing, allowing consumers to make informed decisions.
- Protection against speculative ticketing, preventing the sale of tickets that sellers don't possess.
- Mandated refunds for canceled or postponed events, providing financial security for ticket purchasers.
- Clearer disclosure of refund policies, ensuring consumers understand their rights.
- Prevention of misleading affiliations with venues, teams, or artists.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased operational costs for ticket issuers and secondary market exchanges due to compliance requirements.
- Possible limitations on the secondary ticket market, potentially reducing consumer choice.
- The definition of 'cause beyond reasonable control' regarding event cancellations could be subject to interpretation and disputes.
- Enforcement relies on the FTC, and its effectiveness depends on the agency's resources and priorities.
- The 180-day delay before implementation might allow existing deceptive practices to continue in the short term.
Constitutional Alignment
The TICKET Act primarily regulates commercial activities related to interstate commerce. Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce is derived from Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 of the Constitution (the Commerce Clause). The Act's provisions regarding disclosures and prohibitions on deceptive practices align with the government's interest in protecting consumers and ensuring fair trade, which falls within the scope of the Commerce Clause.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).