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Sen. Moran Introduces Legislation, Schedules Hearing to Improve Kansans' Access to Entertainment Events

Bill Would Improve Kansans' Access to Entertainment Events

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – Chairman of the Senate Consumer Protection, Product Safety, Insurance and Data Security Subcommittee – recently introduced the Better Online Ticket Sales (BOTS) Act (S. 3183). The legislation would put an end to the growing practice of ticket scalpers utilizing software to poach tickets to in-demand events and drive up prices for consumers.

“Scalpers have long been driving up ticket prices and harming consumers, but their methods are becoming increasingly sophisticated,” said Sen. Moran. “It’s hard enough to get tickets to high-profile events without the added struggle of having to fight bots online. My legislation seeks to put an end to this practice, and I plan to chair a hearing on this important legislation next week as we work to protect consumers from fraud and level the playing field for all Americans.”

“We support any bill that allows Kansas patrons equal access to all tickets that are available for our events,” said InTrust Bank Arena (Wichita, Kan.) General Manager A.J. Boleski. “Those that use computer programs to circumvent ticketing systems protocols should not be able to acquire large quantities of tickets only to put them out for resell to the general public at a higher price.”

Pandora-Ticketfly Head of Public Policy Katie Peters added, “Scalpers siphon off nearly $5 billion in concert ticket revenue every year, hurting people across the music ecosystem – from fans and artists, to their local concert venues and promoters. We applaud Senator Moran for introducing this legislation to make sure those who create and take part in amazing events are properly rewarded. It’s important for lawmakers to act swiftly on this to help create a music economy that works for everyone.”

Sen. Moran will convene a hearing on Tuesday, Sept. 13 to discuss the BOTS Act.

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