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SB 158

Consumer protection: other; certain uses of automated programs to purchase event tickets online; prohibit. Creates new act. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4262'25

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rosemary Bayer and 9 co-sponsors

Michigan law prohibits using automated software to buy event tickets online, imposing penalties on bot users and scalpers to protect consumers from inflated resale prices.

ASSIGNED PA 0050'25
#communications:internet #consumerprotection:other #recreation:athleticsandsports #recreation:entertainment
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Bill Summary · SB 158

Legislative bill overview

SB 158 prohibits the use of automated programs (bots) to purchase event tickets online in Michigan, creating new consumer protection laws against ticket scalping. The bill establishes penalties for violators and creates exceptions for certain authorized uses like venue management systems.

Why is this important

Event ticket reselling has become a widespread problem, with bots purchasing large quantities of tickets within seconds and reselling them at massive markups, pricing out ordinary consumers. This legislation addresses a real market dysfunction where software automation gives unfair advantages to scalpers over regular buyers competing for limited inventory.

Potential points of contention

  • Enforcement challenges: Detecting and prosecuting bot use is technically difficult; bad actors can mask automated purchasing through VPNs and spoofed identities, making real-world enforcement resource-intensive
  • Legitimate use exceptions: The bill must carefully define what constitutes authorized automation (ticketing platforms' own systems, accessibility tools) versus prohibited bots, and overly broad definitions could inadvertently restrict legal business operations
  • Interstate commerce issues: Since tickets are often sold across state lines and online, Michigan's law may have limited effectiveness if other states lack similar protections, or could create compliance complexity for national ticketing platforms

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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