In the latest push to curb the monopolization of live event tickets by automated software, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed legislation commonly known as the "Taylor Swift bills." As reported by ClickOnDetroit, the bills target the use of bots that purchase tickets in bulk, subsequently inflating prices and locking out genuine fans looking to attend concerts and sporting events.
The bipartisan effort, resulting in Senate Bill 158 and House Bill 4262 - introduced by Sen. Mary Cavanagh and Rep. Mike Harris, respectively - seeks to ensure fairness and access in the online ticket marketplace. "Bot-scammers have long taken advantage of Michigan consumers by purchasing event tickets in bulk and funneling them into an inflated resale market, pricing far too many folks out of the joy and community built at live entertainment events," Cavanagh stated in a release covered by ClickOnDetroit.
A closer look at the legislation, as outlined by WXYZ, reveals that violators of the new act could face civil penalties, with the Michigan Attorney General's office authorized to bring forth actions up to $5,000 per violation. This enforcement mechanism closely mirrors the provisions of the federal Better Online Tickets Sales (BOTS) Act.
Rep. Mike Harris expressed the necessity of the bill in light of past events, "The Great War over Eras Tour tickets highlighted the need to ensure real people have a real chance to purchase tickets and bring Michiganders back into the Daylight at their favorite venues and events," Harris elaborated, according to WXYZ. These bills were just a part of a series of measures signed by Whitmer, which also included legislation aimed at child safety, cutting red tape for various businesses, and protecting Michigan citizens from frivolous lawsuits.
The governor's comprehensive legislative action has received bipartisan support, boasting efforts to lower costs for residents and enhance the state's consumer protections. "I'll work with anyone to lower costs for Michiganders, protect consumers, keep kids safe, and cut red tape," Whitmer said in a statement described by Audacy. The statewide impact of these measures is expected to be substantial, as they aim to foster a more equitable and enjoyable experience for those seeking to partake in Michigan's rich offering of live events.
