California Bill to Ban Speculative Ticket Sales Gets Major Support from NIVA
The National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) has endorsed a California bill that would prohibit speculative ticketing practices. The proposed legislation, Bill AB 1349, introduced by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan, aims to protect consumers and venues from deceptive ticket reselling practices.
California city skyline at sunset
Key provisions of the bill include:
- Requiring resellers to own tickets before listing them for sale
- Mandatory verification of ticket ownership by secondary platforms
- Clear display of seat locations for all resale listings
- Prevention of misleading website designs that mimic official venues
Stephen Parker, Executive Director of NIVA, emphasizes the bill's importance in protecting fair access to live entertainment and maintaining fan trust. The legislation addresses common issues faced by independent venues, including invalid tickets and misleading pricing practices.
Jim Cornett, NIVA CA Chapter President, notes that venues regularly encounter disappointed fans who have fallen victim to deceptive ticket sales. The proposed measures aim to safeguard consumers, independent venues, and performing artists from predatory reselling practices.
The bill represents a significant step toward creating a more transparent and fair ticketing system in California's live entertainment industry.
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