Delaware Senate Bill SB181

Delaware 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/6/25
• Refer: 6/6/25
• Refer: 6/12/25

Caption

An Act To Amend Title 6 Of The Delaware Code Regarding The Secondary Ticketing Market.

Impact

The bill strengthens consumer protection by requiring ticket resellers and primary sellers to provide transparency in pricing and to avoid deceptive practices. A notable provision is the cap placed on resale prices, which limits them to 10% over the original sales price of the tickets. This aims to curb inflationary practices within the ticket resale market, which often sees exorbitant prices. Additionally, sellers who resell a significant number of tickets (100 or more per year) must register with the Division of Consumer Protection, which will maintain a public list of registered resellers.

Summary

Senate Bill 181 aims to amend Title 6 of the Delaware Code concerning the secondary ticketing market. The bill introduces regulations that impact how event tickets are sold and resold within the state. It mandates that all sellers, before collecting payment, must clearly disclose the total price of tickets, inclusive of fees and any additional costs. Furthermore, it prohibits the resale of tickets until they are publicly available for sale, including restrictions against accessing tickets through fan clubs before their general release.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB181 reflects a response to the concerns of consumers regarding ticket accessibility and fairness in pricing. Supporters of the bill highlight the need for greater regulation to prevent exploitative practices in the ticket resale market, arguing that it will benefit the average consumer. Conversely, some stakeholders, particularly those who operate in the secondary ticket market, express concern that the bill may restrict their business operations and reduce market flexibility.

Contention

A point of contention in the discussions surrounding SB181 revolves around the enforcement and implications of the new regulations. There are concerns among resellers about the administrative burden of compliance, such as registration and reporting requirements, and how this may impact their business models. The bill also introduces civil penalties for violations, raising questions about the balance between consumer protection and the capability of resellers to operate effectively within the marketplace.