2019 Senate Bill 385 / 2020 Public Act 176

Repeal ticket scalping ban, restrict ticket resale websites

Introduced in the Senate

June 20, 2019

Introduced by Sen. Tom Barrett (R-24)

To repeal a state law that bans ticket “scalping” at sports and entertainment events, but prohibit the sale or use of software primarily designed to interfere with an event sponsor's internet ticket sale operation, or with a website that is designed to ensure an equitable ticket allocation process. Among other things the bill adds restrictions aimed at operations that buy-up a substantial portion of the tickets for an event with the intent of manipulating the price.

Referred to the Committee on Economic and Small Business Development

Oct. 29, 2019

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the bill pass.

Jan. 30, 2020

Substitute offered by Sen. Tom Barrett (R-24)

To replace the previous version of the bill with one that revises details but does not change the substance as previously described.

The substitute passed by voice vote

Amendment offered by Sen. Jim Stamas (R-36)

To require a ticket purchaser service to notify a purchaser at least 48 hours before an event if it does not have a ticket for the person.

The amendment passed by voice vote

Passed in the Senate 28 to 10 (details)

Received in the House

Feb. 4, 2020

Referred to the Committee on Judiciary

Sept. 15, 2020

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the substitute (H-1) be adopted and that the bill then pass.

Sept. 22, 2020

Passed in the House 91 to 14 (details)

To repeal a state law that bans ticket “scalping” at sports and entertainment events, but prohibit the sale or use of software primarily designed to interfere with an event sponsor's internet ticket sale operation, or with a website that is designed to ensure an equitable ticket allocation process. Among other things the bill adds restrictions aimed at operations that buy-up a substantial portion of the tickets for an event with the intent of manipulating the price.

Received in the Senate

Sept. 23, 2020

Passed in the Senate 37 to 0 (details)

To concur with the House-passed version of the bill.

Signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer

Oct. 1, 2020