Consumer Groups React As Bill To Protect Ticketmaster’s Monopoly Squeaks Through California Assembly

Groups warn Ticketmaster's AB 1720 will strengthen the monopoly at the expense of Californians

CALIFORNIA — Consumer groups across California reacted today as Ticketmaster-backed AB 1720 squeaked by in the California State Assembly, warning the bill would further entrench the company’s monopoly power and drive up ticket prices for Californians. Earlier this month, 14 consumer groups sent a letter urging lawmakers to oppose the measure, arguing it unfairly targets consumers who resell tickets while failing to address Live Nation/Ticketmaster’s monopoly power, excessive fees, and anti-consumer practices — the real drivers of rising ticket costs. The groups instead called for reforms that promote transparency, competition, and accountability in the ticketing marketplace.

Jose L. Barrera, League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) National Vice President for the Far West Region:

“Here we are again, with the California State Assembly cozying up to monopolies instead of the people. More power for Ticketmaster means higher prices. Since their merger in 2015, ticket prices have increased by an average of 150 percent. AB 1720 goes after consumers instead of the monopoly that has been caught bragging about ‘robbing ticket buyers.’ The Legislature should be demanding accountability from corporations that are driving prices higher, not restricting the rights of Californian consumers.”

Pastor Tecoy Porter Sr., President, National Action Network Sacramento:

“In communities across Sacramento, families, seniors, and young people are already being priced out of concerts, games, and cultural events that once brought people together and strengthened community ties. AB 1720 does nothing to address the monopoly practices and excessive fees driving those costs higher. Instead, it places new burdens on everyday consumers while leaving powerful corporations untouched. Our communities deserve greater access, fairness, and accountability, not policies that make these experiences even further out of reach.”

Jay King, President and CEO of the California Black Chamber of Commerce:

“AB 1720 punishes consumers while helping a monopoly eliminate competition in the ticket marketplace. Instead of addressing the corporate practices that drive up prices and fees, this bill protects dominant players and makes it harder for Californians to participate in a lawful resale market. California should stand for competition and not pass policies that strengthen monopolies at the expense of consumers.”

Doug Kessler, Executive Director, Si Se Puede Fresno, Kern, Kings and Tulare:

“AB 1720 puts the interests of powerful corporations ahead of working people and consumers. Live Nation/Ticketmaster was found guilty by a jury of being a monopoly. But instead of holding them accountable, this bill targets regular people who are simply trying to resell tickets they purchased legally when plans change or money gets tight. And Ticketmaster? They get to continue to gouge.”

More information about AB 1720:

AB 1720 leaves Ticketmaster’s primary market practices entirely untouched, which make up the majority of tickets sold in California. Ticketmaster’s resale tickets would also be largely exempt from these caps. Dynamic pricing, inventory holdbacks, and high fees all continue unchecked. AB 1720 regulates consumers, not the primary market where a monopoly sets the price. Small business, consumer rights, and equity groups oppose this bill and are working to urge the CA Legislature to increase competition in live event ticketing while also enhancing the rights of fans.