WASHINGTON — Today, Congresswoman Harshbarger (R-TN) introduced the House bipartisan companion bill for the Mitigating Automated Internet Networks (MAIN) Event Ticketing Act with co-lead Congressman Troy A. Carter (D-LA). Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) have introduced the bill in the U.S. Senate.
This legislation builds on the Better Online Ticket Sales (BOTs) Act, which was signed into law in 2016 and aims to stop ticket scalpers from using software to purchase tickets in high volumes.
This legislation will also codify President Trump's recent executive order to hold ticket scalpers accountable.
The MAIN Event Ticketing Act accomplishes the following:
- Establishes reporting requirements for online ticket sellers to notify of successful bot attacks to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC);
- Creates a complaint database so consumers can share their experiences with the FTC, which must then share that information with state attorneys general;
- Enacts data security requirements for online ticket sellers and mandates information sharing between the FTC and law enforcement; and
- Requires a report to Congress on BOTs enforcement.
Congresswoman Harshbarger issued the following statement.
"If there's one thing that can bring us all together, it's music and entertainment. This is especially true for East Tennessee, as we're home to music legends like Dolly Parton and Morgan Wallen.
"Whether it's attending a concert or a stand-up show, we all love spending time with friends and family to enjoy live entertainment. What no one loves is trying to buy a ticket to see your favorite performer—only to find that scalpers have scooped up most of the tickets and are reselling them at exorbitant prices."
Congressman Carter said the following.
“I am proud to lead this bill, which is a crucial step toward restoring fairness and transparency in the online ticket marketplace. In Louisiana, the birthplace of American Music, this is especially important. By cracking down on bots and improving the enforcement of existing laws, this bipartisan legislation prioritizes fans, ensuring they have a fair chance to experience the live events they love without being priced out or misled by deceitful actors.
"I am honored to stand with Rep. Harshbarger, along with many artists, venues, and industry leaders, to protect consumers and uphold the integrity of live entertainment,” said Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02).
Senator Blackburn issued the following statement of support.
“A fan should be able to buy tickets to live events without bots stealing them and hiking the price,” said Senator Blackburn. “We have given the FTC the tools they need to help reduce ticket costs and protect consumers and artists from scammers. Now we must ensure they are enforcing it. This bipartisan legislation builds upon my work to safeguard artists and their fans in the online ticket marketplace.”
Click HERE to view the bill text.
Click HERE to view Senator Blackburn's press release.