Kingsport Reporter

On April 8, Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at curbing ticket scalping. Named the House Bipartisan companion bill for the Mitigating Automated Internet Networks (MAIN) Event Ticketing Act, it was introduced alongside U.S. Congressman Troy A. Carter from Louisiana. Senators Marsha Blackburn and Ben Ray Luján have introduced similar legislation in the U.S Senate.

The legislation seeks to address issues related to ticket scalping, expanding on the Better Online Ticket Sales Act from 2016. Harshbarger emphasized, "A fan should be able to buy tickets to live events without bots stealing them and hiking the price." The bill is designed to give the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) more tools for enforcement to protect consumers and artists.

The proposed legislation would codify an executive order from former President Donald Trump, increasing accountability for ticket scalpers. It includes requirements for online ticket sellers to report successful bot attacks to the FTC. There will also be a complaint database allowing consumers to share experiences with the FTC and attorneys general. Additionally, it mandates data security measures and information sharing between the FTC and law enforcement, with reporting duties to Congress.

Congresswoman Harshbarger noted the importance of music and entertainment, particularly in East Tennessee, where events are popular. She highlighted the frustration of fans who find tickets resold at inflated prices by scalpers.

Congressman Carter, co-leading the bill, expressed his support for restoring fairness in ticket sales. He emphasized, "By cracking down on bots and improving the enforcement of existing laws, this bipartisan legislation prioritizes fans." He also expressed gratitude for standing with fellow sponsors and industry stakeholders to protect consumers.

The bill represents an effort to address complaints about the ticket marketplace and aims to enhance fairness and transparency for fans seeking to attend live events.