Tri-City Sun

State Representative Matthew Bierlein has supported new legislation aimed at addressing the issue of inflated ticket prices caused by automated bot buyers. These bots are used to bypass purchase limits set by venues and ticket websites, allowing individuals and groups to acquire large quantities of tickets rapidly. The tickets are then resold at significantly higher prices. House Bills 4262-63 aim to prohibit the use of these bots.

"Buying and selling tickets to concerts, shows and athletic events online has become a common practice within our growing technological world because of its speed and relative ease," said Bierlein, who represents Vassar. "Unfortunately, bad actors have corrupted the online ticketing landscape, frustrating fans of teams and performers and raising costs on hardworking families. These plans work to maintain fair access to events and protect consumers."

Bierlein cited an example presented during discussions in the House Judiciary Committee earlier this month: a ticket originally priced at approximately $250 was listed on the resale market for 20 times that amount. In 2022, Ticketmaster's website experienced a crash due to an overwhelming number of bot purchase attempts during sales for Taylor Swift's 2023-24 tour.

The proposed bills would empower the Michigan Department of Attorney General to take legal action against those using bots to circumvent online ticket purchasing limits. Violators could face civil fines up to $5,000 per fraudulently obtained ticket.

Similar legislation has been enacted in other states such as Arizona and Maine. While federal law also restricts ticket bots, this state-level ban will provide local law enforcement with additional tools to combat the issue.

The bills now move forward for consideration by the Senate.