The National Independent Talent Organization (NITO) has called on the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to expand its recent concert ticket "Junk Fees Rule," arguing that the current version fails to address core pricing issues.

The FTC's rule, approved in December with a 4-1 vote, requires businesses to display all-in pricing for concert tickets upfront, showing the total cost including fees before checkout. While this transparency measure has gained support from industry leaders like Live Nation and its Ticketmaster subsidiary, NITO argues it doesn't go far enough.

Key Points About the Current Rule:

• Takes effect in mid-April
• Requires upfront display of total ticket costs
• Applies to live entertainment, hotels, and vacation rentals
• Does not prohibit or limit any type of fees
• Already implemented by some states and venues

NITO's Position:

• Acknowledges the rule as "a positive step forward"
• Criticizes lack of action on underlying fee structures
• Calls for greater transparency between artist pricing and final consumer costs
• Commits to working with stakeholders to reduce consumer costs

The rule's future remains uncertain under the incoming administration, with FTC Commissioner Andrew Ferguson (President-elect Trump's choice for FTC chair) opposing the measure. Meanwhile, other countries are taking more aggressive approaches, such as the UK's recent proposal to cap resale ticket prices.

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