On February 12, 2025, the Tennessee State Legislature introduced Senate Bill 917, aimed at regulating the resale of tickets for events in the state. The bill seeks to address the growing concern over speculative ticket sales, which often lead to inflated prices and consumer dissatisfaction.

The primary purpose of Senate Bill 917 is to prohibit the sale or offering for sale of speculative tickets, defined as tickets sold at a price significantly above their face value. This legislation is designed to protect consumers from unfair pricing practices in the ticket resale market. Key provisions include the establishment of a complaint mechanism through the Division of Consumer Affairs within the Office of the Attorney General. This division will be responsible for enforcing the new regulations and addressing consumer complaints regarding violations.

Notably, the bill stipulates that any third-party ticket reseller found in violation of the prohibition on speculative ticket sales will face a penalty of $5,000 for each instance of violation. This provision aims to deter potential offenders and ensure compliance with the new law.

The introduction of Senate Bill 917 has sparked discussions among lawmakers, consumer advocacy groups, and ticket resellers. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary step to protect consumers from exploitative practices, while opponents raise concerns about the potential impact on the ticket resale market and the livelihoods of resellers. Some critics suggest that the bill may inadvertently limit access to tickets for certain events, as resellers often play a role in making tickets available to a broader audience.

The economic implications of this bill could be significant, particularly for the entertainment and sports industries, where ticket sales are a major revenue source. If enacted, the law will take effect on July 1, 2025, applying to conduct occurring on or after that date.

As the legislative process continues, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the bill's progress and potential amendments. The outcome of Senate Bill 917 could reshape the landscape of ticket sales in Tennessee, influencing both consumer experiences and the operations of ticket resellers in the state.