Texas House Bill HB196

Texas 2021 - 87th 2nd C.S.

Caption

Relating to requiring the disclosure of fees charged for the sale of concert and other event tickets.

Impact

If enacted, HB196 will impact how ticket vendors operate within Texas, pushing for greater compliance with consumer transparency standards. It will obligate all ticket sellers, including those operating online, to display clear information regarding any fees alongside ticket prices. This change aims to standardize practices across the state, potentially providing a consistent experience for consumers. Furthermore, this bill seeks to empower consumers by increasing their ability to make informed purchasing decisions, thereby fostering a healthier market surrounding event access.

Summary

House Bill 196 addresses the issue of ticket sales for concerts and events by requiring the full disclosure of fees charged to consumers. Specifically, the bill amends the Business and Commerce Code by adding Chapter 205, which mandates that any seller or reseller of tickets must disclose all fees associated with the ticket purchase. This disclosure must be presented in a clear and accessible manner on ticket websites, enabling consumers to be fully aware of any additional costs before completing their purchases. The intent behind this legislation is to enhance transparency in ticket sales and protect consumers from unexpected charges, which have been a common complaint among event-goers.

Contention

While the bill is geared toward protecting consumers, it may face contention from event organizers and ticketing companies that rely on additional charges as part of their revenue model. Opponents of the bill could argue that mandated fee disclosures might deter customers from purchasing tickets, as the disclosure may impact their perception of ticket affordability. Additionally, there may be concerns over how broadly 'fees' are defined and the implications for different types of events or venues. As these discussions unfold, stakeholders will need to navigate a balance between consumer rights and business interests in the ticketing industry.