Trump takes action against ticket scalping in entertainment

In response to ongoing concerns over ticket scalping, Donald Trump signed an executive order targeting exploitative practices in the concert and entertainment industry. The order primarily directs the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to enforce competition laws and uphold the Better Online Ticket Sales (BOTS) Act, which aims to increase transparency in ticket pricing and combat the rampant use of bots for purchasing tickets in bulk. It also directs federal government agencies, including the Treasury Department and the Department of Justice (DOJ), to ensure ticket scalpers comply with tax regulations and other relevant laws. Furthermore, the executive order seeks to create a report summarizing actions taken to address these unfair practices and recommends further legislative measures to protect consumers within this industry. The order highlights the significant economic impact of the live concert and entertainment sector, which contributes approximately $132.6 billion to the economy and supports nearly a million jobs. Trump's administration aims to level the playing field for fans, ensuring that they are not priced out of their favorite events due to the unscrupulous actions of scalpers, who artificially inflate ticket prices often by hundreds of percent. Kid Rock, a prominent figure in the music industry, supported the initiative, noting that ticket prices have become increasingly inflated and a barrier for everyday fans seeking to enjoy live performances. He emphasized the importance of artists receiving fair compensation for their work while concurrently advocating for consumers' ability to access affordable ticket options. The executive order aligns with previous efforts by the Biden administration to address junk fees and monopolistic practices within the ticketing industry, indicating a rare bipartisan approach to tackling consumer protection issues in entertainment.