CALPIRG testifies in support of price transparency in ticket sales

On Tuesday, April 25th, CALPIRG Consumer Advocate Sander Kushen testified in two committees in the California Assembly in support of legislation that would guarantee ticket transferability and ensure transparent ticket pricing. Here is his testimony:

“Hello, my name is Sander Kushen, and I am the Consumer Advocate for CALPIRG. We’re the statewide consumer watchdog and advocacy group working to protect Californians and ensure a fair marketplace. We’ve here today as proud cosponsors of AB 8.

One of the most basic tenets of consumer protection is transparency. Complete pricing information, specifically, is critical to help inform consumer’s purchases and ensure a fair marketplace.

But more and more, ticket sellers are violating this principle by blindsiding consumers with hidden fees and other unfair tactics that can make it hard to find the true price of a ticket.

AB 8 addresses this by ensuring a ticket’s advertised price is the actual price, and ensures that seat location information and refund policies are available to the consumer at the time of purchase.

In addition to proper transparency, AB 8 gives consumers control over their ticket after they purchase it. Currently, ticket sellers can prevent ticket owners from reselling tickets through any site besides their own. Once someone purchases a ticket, it should be theirs to do with as they please.

Additionally, AB 8 would better protect the data of consumers who use ticket resale platforms.

Broad public support for ticket reform that has been brewing for the last several years, and these reforms offered by AB 8 are long overdue. As we emerge from the worst days of the COVID pandemic, Californians are looking for more and more opportunities to enjoy live events. And as people rush to buy tickets for these events, the broken nature of the ticket-selling system is becoming more and more clear.

AB 8 offers common-sense solutions to this broken system. Consumers should know the true price of a ticket, and have control over what they can do with their own ticket once purchased. Thank you and I respectfully ask for your ‘aye’ vote.”