Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB281

Introduced
1/28/25  
Refer
1/28/25  

Caption

TICKET Act Transparency In Charges for Key Events Ticketing Act

Impact

The bill introduces several relevant changes to state and federal consumer protection laws. Notably, it places a legal obligation on ticket sellers to display all-inclusive ticket prices and itemized breakdowns of any additional fees. It also explicitly prohibits speculative ticketing, which has become a notable issue whereby tickets are sold without possession, often resulting in inflation of prices in the secondary market. Additionally, the enforcement of refund policies must be clearly outlined and accessible, promoting consumer rights in cases of cancellations or changes to events.

Summary

SB281, known as the Transparency In Charges for Key Events Ticketing Act, seeks to establish clear regulations in the area of event ticket sales. The bill mandates that sellers, including both primary and secondary market ticket issuers, provide comprehensive disclosures regarding ticket prices and associated fees, ensuring that consumers are fully aware of the total cost before making purchases. This legislation is tailored to enhance buyer transparency, helping to mitigate hidden costs that may be prevalent in the ticketing industry.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB281 is generally positive among consumer advocacy groups who see it as a critical step in protecting ticket buyers from unfair practices and hidden fees. Supporters argue that this legislation promotes fairness and accountability in the ticketing industry. However, some concerns have been raised by sellers and platforms who rely on the secondary market for revenues, as they fear that stringent regulations may hinder their business operations. The discourse surrounding the bill reveals a balance between consumer rights and the operational freedoms of ticket sellers.

Contention

Points of contention primarily revolve around the balance between regulation and market dynamics. Opponents of SB281 argue that while transparency is necessary, overly strict regulations could stifle competition in the ticketing industry, particularly impacting smaller sellers who may struggle to adapt. Proponents counter that without such regulations, consumers will continue to suffer from a lack of transparency and unfair practices. The bill's impact on the secondary market is a focal point for debate, as various stakeholders evaluate the long-term implications of enforced price disclosures and refund requirements.

Companion Bills

US HB1402

Related TICKET Act Transparency In Charges for Key Events Ticketing Act

US HB1768

Related Lower Costs for Everyday Americans Act Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act Recycling and Composting Accountability Act SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act of 2025 American Music Tourism Act Deploying American Blockchains Act

Previously Filed As

US HB3950

Transparency In Charges for Key Events Ticketing Act TICKET Act

US SB1303

Transparency In Charges for Key Events Ticketing Act TICKET Act

US HB6568

STOP Act of 2023 Speculative Ticketing Oversight and Prohibition Act

US SB3191

MAIN Event Ticketing Act Mitigating Automated Internet Networks for Event Ticketing Act

US SB2957

BOSS and SWIFT ACT of 2023 Better Oversight of Stub Sales and Strengthening Well Informed and Fair Transactions for Audiences of Concert Ticketing Act of 2023

US HB3660

BOSS and SWIFT ACT of 2023 Better Oversight of Stub Sales and Strengthening Well Informed and Fair Transactions for Audiences of Concert Ticketing Act of 2023

US SB1321

Unlock Ticketing Markets Act of 2023

US SB1326

Unlock Ticketing Markets Act of 2023

US SB3457

Fans First Act

US SB5337

Youth Revenue Transparency Act

Similar Bills

US HB1402

TICKET Act Transparency In Charges for Key Events Ticketing Act

US HB817

Educational Choice for Children Act of 2025

US SB292

Educational Choice for Children Act of 2025

US HB3517

Social Security Enhancement and Protection Act of 2025

US HB1069

Promoting Responsible Oversight To Eliminate Communist Teachings for Our Kids Act or the PROTECT Our Kids ActThis bill prohibits federal education funding for any elementary or secondary school that directly or indirectly receives support from the Chinese government.Specifically, the bill prohibits such funding for any school that (1) has a partnership in effect with a cultural or language institute funded by the Chinese government, including a Confucius Institute; (2) operates a learning center supported by the Chinese government (commonly referred to as a Confucius Classroom); or (3) receives support from an individual or entity acting on behalf of the Chinese government, including support in the form of teaching materials, personnel, funds, or other resources. However, the Department of Education (ED) may issue a waiver of the prohibition if a school has an existing contract with one of these entities and the school demonstrates that the contract is for the benefit of the school and promotes the security, stability, and economy of the United States.The bill directs ED to provide notice of the bill's requirements to schools, as well as guidance for achieving compliance with the requirements.

US HB5474

Jumpstart on College Act

US SB2814

Jumpstart on College Act

US SB3518

Reengage the Workforce Act