Changes Proposed For Resale Of PA Concert, Sporting Event Tickets

PENNSYLVANIA — A state legislator wants to change the way consumers in the state can buy tickets to concerts, sports games and other events.

Dan Deasy, an Allegheny County Democrat, believes that people currently are limited in their ability to resell or transfer their tickets.

"Some venues and promoters impose unfair restrictions on season ticket holders or use paperless ticketing systems to prevent lawful transfers.," he said in a memo to colleagues.

"These restrictions harm consumers and facilitate monopolistic control over ticket markets, including excessive resale fees and artificial barriers to access."

Deasy said he soon will propose legislation to update the state's ticket resale laws to ensure that consumers can freely transfer, resell or use tickets they purchase.

The bill also would maintain existing protections against fraud and price gouging, as well as addressing unfair venue practices that limit consumer rights.

"Pennsylvanians should be able to use, gift, or resell the tickets they purchase, just as they can with other forms of personal property," Deasy stated.

"This bill restores balance between event organizers and ticket buyers, ensuring a fair, accessible, and competitive marketplace for live events."