MAIN Event Ticketing Act Mitigating Automated Internet Networks for Event Ticketing Act
The proposed legislation will require online ticket issuers to implement robust security measures to protect their systems from circumvention by automated ticket purchasing bots. This includes establishing comprehensive site security protocols and reporting known incidents of circumvention to federal authorities. Notably, the bill mandates that ticket issuers must also disclose violations and consumer complaints, enhancing transparency in the ticketing industry. The bill thus aims to level the playing field for consumers by penalizing exploitative purchasing practices that have historically benefited resellers and secondary market operators.
House Bill 2713, titled the 'Mitigating Automated Internet Networks for Event Ticketing Act' or the 'MAIN Event Ticketing Act', focuses on enhancing the security and integrity of online ticket sales. The bill aims to improve protections against automated systems that buy tickets in bulk, commonly known as bots. It updates existing regulations from the Better Online Ticket Sales Act of 2016, aiming to create more stringent rules for ticket issuers regarding the use of access controls and technological safeguards to prevent unauthorized purchase practices. This is in response to ongoing consumer complaints about unfair ticket purchasing practices that disadvantage regular consumers.
While the bill is largely supportive of consumer rights, there are concerns regarding how such regulations will be enforced and the potential for overreach. Some stakeholders argue that strict regulations might complicate the process of purchasing tickets for legitimate consumers, potentially leading to unintended consequences, like inconvenience or delays in ticket access. Additionally, questions have arisen about the balance of authority between federal and state regulations regarding online ticket sales and whether the measures will effectively deter illicit purchasing activities without impairing commerce.