New legislation signed into law by New York Governor Kathy Hochul June 30 targets predatory and unfair practices in the live event ticketing industry, including Broadway.
An extension and update of New York's "Ticketing Law," the measure bans hidden fees and expands penalties for the use of scalper bots and ticket purchasing software. The legislation also outlaws the sale of free tickets and puts an end to delivery fees on tickets delivered electronically.
"Live entertainment has long been a critical sector in our economy, and as consumers and the industry recover from the pandemic, it is important that we make the ticket-buying experience easier and more transparent," says Governor Hochul in a statement. "This bill will expand penalties for malicious ticketing practices that have made live events inaccessible to New Yorkers for too long. Today, we are taking an important step towards ensuring that every New Yorker has a fair opportunity to enjoy the unique arts and cultural experiences that our state has to offer."
"New York is the epicenter of the entertainment world, and making sure artists, performers, and venues can reach fans and sell tickets is essential to their success," adds Assemblymember Daniel J. O'Donnell. "I am very proud of this legislation, which creates a fair playing field for all those in the industry, adds important new consumer protections, and makes sure that fans and event goers have access to tickets for all the events they want to see. I thank Governor Hochul for signing this bill, and all those involved in shaping this important legislation. For shows big and small, and from theatre to music to sports and more, this legislation keeps live events in New York booming, and ready to step back into the spotlight."
