Maryland 2024 Regular Session

Maryland House Bill HB1236

Introduced
2/8/24  

Caption

Commercial Law - Consumer Protection - Sale and Resale of Tickets

Impact

If enacted, HB1236 will significantly change the landscape of ticket sales in the state. By prohibiting resellers from selling tickets for prices exceeding the original purchase price and by regulating the sale of 'speculative tickets,' the bill aims to protect consumers from price gouging and misleading sales practices. This approach is expected to create a fairer marketplace for ticket sales, particularly for highly sought-after events where ticket prices can soar unexpectedly.

Summary

House Bill 1236 introduces new regulations on the sale and resale of tickets, focusing on protecting consumers and ensuring transparency in transactions. The bill mandates that sellers provide clear information regarding the total price of tickets, including all fees and taxes, and to disclose specific details about the seats being sold. This is intended to enable buyers to make informed decisions while purchasing tickets for various events.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB1236 include concerns from event organizers and primary ticket sellers who argue that restrictions on resale prices and requirements for disclosure may limit their ability to control ticket distribution and pricing. Opponents of the bill may argue that the regulations could inadvertently harm the viability of secondary ticket markets, which provide consumers with options when primary sales have sold out, particularly in cases of popular or high-demand events. Ultimately, the debate centers around balancing consumer protections with the rights and operations of ticket sellers.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MD HB795

Commercial Law - Consumer Protection - Ticket Sales (Event-Goer Rights and Accountable Sales (ERAS) Act)

MD SB852

Commercial Law - Consumer Protection - Ticket Sales (Event-Goer Rights and Accountable Sales (ERAS) Act)

MD SB90

Commercial Law - Consumer Protection - Telephone Solicitation (Stop the Spam Calls Act of 2023)

MD HB37

Commercial Law - Consumer Protection - Telephone Solicitation (Stop the Spam Calls Act of 2023)

MD SB169

Commercial Law – Consumer Protection – Biometric Data Privacy

MD HB33

Commercial Law - Consumer Protection - Biometric Data Privacy

MD SB179

Consumer Protection - Retail Sales - Return and Exchange Policy (Right to Refund Information Act)

MD HB27

Commercial Law - Consumer Protection Act - Floral Wire Services

MD HB775

Public Safety - Emergency Management - Consumer Protections Against Price Gouging

MD HB807

Consumer Protection - Online and Biometric Data Privacy

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.