Front view of the Capitol

Reps. Carter, Harshbarger Are Holding Ticket Scalpers Accountable

April 10, 2025
Press Release

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) introduced the bipartisan Mitigating Automated Internet Networks (MAIN) Event Ticketing Act, which will protect consumers from online scammers and bots in the online ticket marketplace. The MAIN Event Ticketing Act boosts enforcement of the Better Online Ticket Sales (BOTS) Act of 2016, a law prohibiting ticket scalpers from using software to purchase high volumes of tickets.

 

“I am proud to lead this bill, which is a crucial step toward restoring fairness and transparency in the online ticket marketplace,” said Rep. Carter. “In Louisiana, the birthplace of American Music, this is especially important. By cracking down on bots and improving the enforcement of existing laws, this bipartisan legislation prioritizes fans, ensuring they have a fair chance to experience the live events they love without being priced out or misled by deceitful actors. I am honored to stand with Rep. Harshbarger, along with many artists, venues, and industry leaders, to protect consumers and uphold the integrity of live entertainment.”

 

"If there's one thing that can bring us all together, it's music and entertainment,” said Rep. Harshbarger.“This is especially true for East Tennessee, as we're home to music legends like Dolly Parton and Morgan Wallen. Whether it's attending a concert or a stand-up show, we all love spending time with friends and family to enjoy live entertainment. What no one loves is trying to buy a ticket to see your favorite performer—only to find that scalpers have scooped up most of the tickets and are reselling them at exorbitant prices."

 

The companion MAIN Event Ticketing Act was introduced by Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) in February 2025.

 

Background

 

The MAIN Event Ticketing Act:

 

  • Establishes reporting requirements for online ticket sellers to notify of successful bot attacks to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC);
  • Creates a complaint database so consumers can share their experiences with the FTC, which must then share that information with state attorneys general;
  • Enacts data security requirements for online ticket sellers and mandates information sharing between the FTC and law enforcement; and
  • Requires a report to Congress on BOTs enforcement.

 

This legislation is endorsed by the Recording Academy, Recording Industry Association of America, Live Nation Entertainment, and the National Independent Venue Association.

 

Full bill text can be found here.

 

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