Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota Senate Bill SF2003

Introduced
2/21/23  
Refer
2/21/23  
Refer
3/4/24  

Caption

Disclosures requirements and certain conduct prohibitions relating to ticket sales

Impact

If enacted, SF2003 will significantly alter the landscape of ticket sales in Minnesota, establishing clear guidelines that enhance consumer protection. By holding ticket sales operators to stringent standards, the bill seeks to bolster consumer trust and promote fair practices in the ticketing industry. This aligns with broader efforts to regulate and enhance transparency in various sectors, reflecting a growing trend towards improved consumer rights. The implementation of these new disclosures could potentially reshape how ticket sales are conducted online and offline, affecting both large companies and individual resellers.

Summary

SF2003 introduces consumer protections regarding ticket sales, placing specific disclosure requirements on ticket resellers and online marketplaces. The bill mandates that these entities provide transparent information about the total cost of tickets, inclusive of all fees and surcharges. It aims to eliminate hidden fees and deceptive practices that can mislead consumers when purchasing entertainment tickets. The bill also prohibits certain actions by ticket resellers, such as selling more than one copy of the same ticket and using misleading URLs that could confuse buyers about the authenticity of the ticket seller.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SF2003 has been largely positive among consumer advocacy groups, who welcome the increased protections for ticket buyers. Advocacy groups view the bill as a necessary step towards curbing exploitative practices in ticket sales. However, some criticism has emerged from certain ticket resellers who argue that the regulations may impose excessive burdens on their operations and limit consumer choice. This division highlights an ongoing tension between consumer rights and business interests in the evolving ticket marketplace.

Contention

Notable points of contention involve the balance between consumer protection and the operational freedom of ticket resellers. Critics have raised concerns about whether the compliance costs and operational restrictions could disproportionately affect smaller resellers, potentially driving them out of the market. Proponents of the bill, however, argue that the consumer protections are imperative in creating a fair marketplace, indicating a significant philosophical and practical debate surrounding the regulation of this industry.

Companion Bills

MN HF1989

Similar To Ticket sale disclosure required, ticket sale conduct prohibited, data disclosure to the commissioner of commerce required, and enforcement allowed by the commissioner of commerce.

Similar Bills

NV SB444

Revises provisions relating to the excise tax on admission to certain facilities where live entertainment is provided. (BDR 32-602)

NV SB431

Revises provisions relating to the excise tax on live entertainment. (BDR 32-692)

MI SB1148

Local government: other; ticket enhancement fees on entertainment or amusement admissions; allow local governments to collect. Creates new act.

FL H0297

Ticket Sales and Resales

CA SB785

Consumer protection: ticket sellers.

MN HF1989

Ticket sale disclosure required, ticket sale conduct prohibited, data disclosure to the commissioner of commerce required, and enforcement allowed by the commissioner of commerce.

CA AB1349

Consumer protection: ticket sellers.

CT SB00392

An Act Concerning Electronic Ticketing And Ticket Resale Marketplaces.