Summary of HR 1402 - TICKET Act

Overview

Bill Number: HR 1402

Title: Transparency In Charges for Key Events Ticketing Act (TICKET Act)

Introduced: February 18, 2025

Status: Read twice. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders (Calendar No. 163).

Primary Sponsor: Gus M. Bilirakis

Cosponsor: Janice D. Schakowsky

Purpose and Intent

The TICKET Act aims to enhance transparency in the event ticketing market by requiring sellers, both in primary and secondary markets, to provide comprehensive information about ticket prices, associated fees, seat saver programs, and refund policies. The bill seeks to address consumer concerns regarding misleading pricing practices, often referred to as "junk fees," which can obscure the true cost of tickets.

Key Provisions

• Disclosure Requirements: Sellers of event tickets must disclose:

  • Total ticket prices, including all fees.
  • Information on seat saver programs.
  • Refund policies.

• Enforcement: The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) will be responsible for enforcing the provisions of the Act, ensuring compliance and addressing deceptive practices.

• Consumer Protection: The Act aims to protect consumers from misleading websites that falsely claim to sell legitimate event tickets, thereby enhancing overall market transparency.

Background and Need for Legislation

Recent surveys indicate that a significant portion of Americans are cutting back on live entertainment due to rising costs. Approximately 60% of respondents reported financial strain related to event attendance, with many expressing frustration over hidden fees that complicate price comparisons. The TICKET Act responds to these issues by mandating clearer pricing structures, which can help consumers make informed purchasing decisions.

Impact

• Consumers: The bill is expected to benefit consumers by providing clearer pricing information, reducing confusion, and potentially lowering the overall cost of attending events.

• Ticket Sellers: Sellers will need to adapt their pricing disclosures to comply with the new requirements, which may involve changes to their sales processes and marketing strategies.

Legislative Timeline

• February 18, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
• April 8, 2025: Full Committee on Energy and Commerce ordered the bill to be reported favorably without amendments.
• April 24, 2025: Reported by the Committee (H. Rept. 119-66).
• April 29, 2025: Passed in the House with a vote of 409-15.
• April 30, 2025: Received in the Senate.
• September 16, 2025: Read twice and placed on Senate Legislative Calendar.

Conclusion

The TICKET Act represents a significant step towards improving transparency in the ticketing industry, aiming to protect consumers from hidden fees and misleading practices. By mandating clear disclosures, the legislation seeks to empower consumers and foster a more competitive and fair marketplace for event tickets.