The bill amends Washington State's existing laws on ticket sales to enhance consumer protection and transparency. It introduces new definitions such as "all-in price," "base price," and "ticket resale marketplace," which clarify the total cost of admission tickets and the roles of various entities involved in ticket sales. Key provisions require ticket sellers and resellers to disclose the total price, including all fees, before a purchase is completed, and to provide information about cancellation rights and refund policies. Additionally, the bill prohibits deceptive URLs to prevent misleading consumers and allows for the sale of transferable tickets, ensuring consumers can resell tickets without penalties.
Moreover, the legislation mandates that ticket sellers obtain a license and comply with specific regulations, including notifying the attorney general about any software used to bypass purchasing limits. It establishes that ticket resellers must possess the ticket or have a written contract with the rights holder before reselling or advertising tickets, and they must provide clear disclosures regarding delivery dates and seating arrangements. The bill also amends the Uniform Regulation of Business and Professions Act to include ticket sales, subjecting resellers to the same regulatory framework as other licensed professions. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.
Statutes affected: Original Bill: 19.345.010, 19.345.020, 43.24.150, 18.235.020