On March 31, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed a significant executive order focusing on combating the practices that plague America’s live concert and entertainment industry. This decisive action addresses the rampant issue of ticket scalping, where unscrupulous middlemen exploit fans and artists alike, charging exorbitant prices for tickets through unethical means.
The executive order outlines a clear purpose: to protect consumers and artists from the deceitful practices of ticket scalpers who employ bots to hoard tickets and then resell them at staggering markups—sometimes as much as 70 times the original price. Such practices not only affect fans’ ability to attend events but also deprive artists of deserved profits.
In this order, Trump’s administration commits to using all lawful means to enforce competition laws prevalent in the concert and entertainment sectors. Specific directives include:
1. The Attorney General and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) are hereby tasked with ensuring compliance with competition laws in the ticketing industry.
2. The FTC will enforce the Better Online Ticket Sales Act to curb unfair practices rigorously and will collaborate with state authorities to enhance enforcement efforts.
3. Proposals for regulations will be initiated to ensure transparency in ticket prices and sales at all levels, especially in the secondary market.
4. Additionally, the administration aims to scrutinize ticket scalpers’ compliance with tax laws to ensure that all financial activities are transparent and lawful.
In the coming months, a comprehensive report is expected from the Secretary of the Treasury, the Attorney General, and the FTC, detailing the implementation measures taken in line with this executive order and any necessary recommendations for legislative regulations to further protect consumers.
This order reflects Trump’s ongoing commitment to making arts and entertainment more accessible and ensuring fairness in the industry. With targeted action against price gouging and unfair practices, Trump aims to restore integrity to the ticketing market for the benefit of both fans and artists alike.