ST. PAUL, MN - Governor Tim Walz today visited First Avenue in Minneapolis to sign a bill into law at that will strengthen consumer protections for ticket buyers. The bill reforms the processes related to the sale, advertisement, and resale of tickets for concerts, sports, and cultural events. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan were joined by First Avenue CEO Dayna Frank, representatives from Minnesota’s independent venues, and the bill authors, Senator Matt Klein and Representative Kelly Moller.

“Whether Minnesotans are selling out Target Center to cheer the Timberwolves on in the playoffs or catching a concert or a play downtown, they’re paying too many hidden fees while competing against exploitative third parties,” said Governor Walz. “This law will change that. We are protecting consumers and ensuring that Minnesotans can purchase tickets for their favorite events without having to empty their pockets.”

“It's no secret that I love live music – from Portugal. The Man to New Kids on the Block to Beyoncé. However, in recent years, enjoying live music has become more and more difficult,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan . “And, it’s not just music. Whether purchasing tickets for a concert, ball game, or live theater, a lack of transparency in ticket sales, mysterious fees, and hiked prices are making these events less accessible. That’s why I’m so excited for the passage of this bill. For music, sports, and theater fans alike, this bill will ensure Minnesotans can continue to attend their favorite events – without the sticker shock.”

Chapter 94 House File 1989 creates several reforms related to the sale, advertisement, and resale of tickets. The bill protects consumers and cracks down on resellers who hike prices and sell fraudulent tickets by:

• Requiring operators, ticket resellers, and online ticket marketplaces to disclose the total cost of a ticket, including fees and charges.
• Prohibiting resellers from selling more than one copy of a ticket.
• Prohibiting resellers from hiring people to stand in line to purchase tickets for resale.
• Allowing a purchaser harmed by seller or reseller violations to sue.