Consumer protection: ticket sellers.
The bill introduces significant changes to state law regarding the sale of tickets to entertainment events, specifically by making it illegal for ticket sellers and resellers to sell or advertise tickets they do not own or have rights to. This alters the landscape for ticket sales, potentially limiting speculative resale practices that have been criticized for driving up prices and creating access barriers for consumers. Additionally, it raises the stakes for compliance, as violations could lead to misdemeanor charges and substantial fines.
Senate Bill 785, introduced by Senator Caballero, focuses on the regulation of ticket sellers in California by amending existing provisions of the Business and Professions Code. The bill aims to enhance consumer protection in the ticket sales market by prohibiting deceptive practices and mandating that ticket sellers and resale marketplaces must possess a contractual right to sell the tickets they advertise. By imposing stricter requirements on ticket sellers, such as the necessity to own or have the right to sell a ticket before listing them, the intent is to reduce fraud and misrepresentation in this sector.
The sentiment around SB 785 has been largely supportive among consumer advocacy groups, who see the need for comprehensive regulations to protect buyers from scams and inflated ticket prices. On the other hand, some business perspectives express concern that the new rules may complicate ticket resale operations and limit the ability of vendors to provide tickets during high-demand events, which traditionally rely on a more flexible resale environment.
Notable points of contention include the implications of mandatory registration with the Secretary of State for ticket sellers and resale marketplaces, which may be seen as an added burden on smaller vendors. Some stakeholders argue that the bill might disproportionately affect independent resellers who rely on agility in operations, while others emphasize the necessity of these provisions to foster a fair market, ensuring that consumers are adequately informed and protected.