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Bill

Bill

B 26-0224

Restricting Egregious Scalping Against Live Entertainment (RESALE) Amendment Act of 2025

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Charles Allen

D.C. bill restricts ticket resale markups for live events to prevent scalping and improve consumer access to entertainment at reasonable prices.

First Reading
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · B 26-0224

Legislative bill overview

Bill B 26-0224 proposes restrictions on ticket resale practices for live entertainment events in Washington, D.C., targeting what sponsors characterize as "egregious scalping." The bill aims to regulate secondary ticket market practices, likely including price caps, resale restrictions, or disclosure requirements for tickets sold above face value.

Why is this important

Ticket scalping affects consumer access to entertainment—inflated resale prices can price out average attendees while benefiting resellers. This legislation attempts to balance market dynamics with consumer protection, setting precedent for how cities regulate secondary markets in the digital age. The outcome could influence similar efforts nationwide.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and enforcement challenges: Determining what constitutes "egregious" scalping is subjective; enforcement against online resale platforms and private sales is technically difficult
  • First Amendment and property rights concerns: Critics may argue resale restrictions limit free market transactions and individual property rights to sell purchased tickets
  • Impact on legitimate resale markets: Regulations could unintentionally harm fans who legitimately need to sell tickets they can't use, while sophisticated resellers find workarounds
  • Venue and artist revenue questions: Some venues and artists benefit from secondary market activity; restrictions could create unintended economic consequences

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

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