California Assembly Bill AB1720

California 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/5/26
• Refer: 3/19/26
• Report Pass: 3/19/26
• Refer: 3/23/26
• Report Pass: 4/7/26
• Refer: 4/9/26
• Report Pass: 4/14/26
• Refer: 4/15/26
• Report Pass: 4/20/26
• Refer: 4/20/26
• Refer: 5/13/26
• Report Pass: 5/14/26
• Engrossed: 5/28/26
• Refer: 6/1/26
• Refer: 6/10/26

Caption

Ticket sellers.

Impact

The proposed legislation is expected to have significant implications for state laws governing ticket sales and resales. It introduces a civil penalty structure for violations, allowing for penalties of up to $5,000 per ticket sold unlawfully. This shift marks a notable expansion of regulatory authority, as the legislation seeks to hold ticket sellers accountable for misleading pricing practices. Moreover, the bill encourages enforcement actions by the Attorney General and local district attorneys, allowing for civil actions to recover penalties, thereby reinforcing enforcement of consumer protection laws in the context of ticket sales.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1720, introduced by Assembly Member Haney, aims to regulate ticket sellers and resellers in California by imposing strict price limitations on ticket sales. The bill prohibits ticket resellers from selling tickets for more than the original price plus a 10% markup, ensuring transparency in advertising ticket prices, which must include all mandatory fees. It also mandates that original sellers display the original purchase price on tickets, promoting consumer awareness and fairness in the ticketing marketplace. This initiative is intended to curb the practices of industrial-scale resellers who buy tickets in bulk and resell them at inflated prices, making live events less accessible to average consumers.

Sentiment

The sentiment around AB 1720 appears to be generally supportive among those advocating for consumer rights and economic fairness in ticket sales. Proponents argue that the bill is essential for protecting fans and ensuring that live events remain affordable and accessible. However, some opponents express concerns about the potential negative impact on the secondary market and argue that it could stifle legitimate resale or compromise the income of smaller ticket sellers. This divergence reflects a tension between consumer protection and market freedom, setting the stage for a lively debate around the bill's provisions.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding AB 1720 is its attempt to balance consumer protection against the interests of ticket resellers and marketplaces. Critics argue that stringent price limits could undermine business models reliant on ticket resale, particularly those that accommodate genuine fans who may need to sell tickets for unforeseen circumstances. Furthermore, there are concerns regarding enforcement challenges, considering the scale of ticket violations that could arise. The bill’s impact on different stakeholders, especially small businesses and independent artists, will likely be a focal point in discussions moving forward.