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
The bill aims to strengthen consumer protections concerning ticket sales by enforcing regulations on how tickets are marketed and sold. It introduces measures to prohibit unfair practices like selling tickets for the same seat to multiple buyers and obscuring costs through deceptive pricing structures. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) would play a significant role in enforcing these provisions, ensuring that violators face substantial penalties. Furthermore, states would retain the authority to enforce their own consumer laws, thereby enhancing local protections for consumers while harmonizing federal standards.
House Bill 3660, titled the BOSS and SWIFT Act of 2023, is designed to protect consumers from unfair and deceptive practices in the ticket sale industry, both in primary and secondary markets. The bill mandates transparency regarding ticket pricing, specifically requiring the clear disclosure of the total cost, which includes base price and any ancillary charges. Additionally, it seeks to establish clearer rules for both primary ticket sellers and secondary ticket sales marketplaces to ensure that all charges are transparent and that consumers are well informed before making purchases.
One notable point of contention surrounding HB 3660 is the potential pushback from ticket sellers who may see these measures as burdensome and too restrictive. Some industry stakeholders might argue that the requirements for full transparency could lead to increased operational costs, possibly impacting ticket prices. Additionally, debates may arise over the balance of regulation needed to protect consumers while still allowing flexibility for businesses in the ticket sales sector. Another focal point could involve discussions on how effectively the FTC can enforce the rules and whether the penalties imposed would be sufficient to deter violations.