Hawaii's Senate has introduced a bold new bill, SB1160, aimed at tackling the rampant issue of ticket scalping that has plagued popular events across the islands. The legislation, unveiled on February 10, 2025, seeks to protect consumers by prohibiting the resale of tickets at prices exceeding their original value, a move designed to curb the influence of scalpers who exploit high-demand events.

The bill highlights a growing concern among lawmakers, particularly following incidents like the 2018 Bruno Mars concert, where tickets were quickly snatched up by automated bots and resold at exorbitant prices on secondary markets. By targeting these practices, SB1160 aims to ensure that Hawaii residents can access tickets at fair prices, rather than being forced to compete with profiteers.

Key provisions of the bill include the outright ban on selling tickets above their original price, effectively nullifying the scalper's advantage. Additionally, the bill proposes the repeal of existing regulations that govern ticket brokers, which some lawmakers argue are outdated and insufficient to protect consumers in the digital age.

While the bill has garnered support from consumer advocacy groups, it has also sparked debates among ticketing professionals and event organizers. Critics argue that the legislation could inadvertently harm the ticketing industry by limiting the ability of brokers to operate, potentially leading to fewer available tickets for consumers.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, its implications could resonate beyond just ticket sales. If passed, SB1160 may set a precedent for consumer protection laws in other states, reflecting a growing trend to combat scalping practices nationwide. The outcome of this bill could reshape the landscape of event ticketing in Hawaii, ensuring that local fans are prioritized over profit-driven scalpers.