On March 31, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order in the Oval Office to tackle ticket scalping. The order directs government agencies to apply existing laws more strictly, especially against 'bots' (computer programs) that snap up tickets before users get a chance to buy them. The order aims to make ticket prices fairer for everyone.
Donald Trump also invited Kid Rock during the signing. The singer further added:
"Buy a ticket for $100 bucks. By the time you check it out, it's $170. You don't know what you've been charged for, but more importantly, these bots. You know they come, and they get all the good tickets to your favorite shows you want to go to, and then they re-list it immediately for sometimes 4-500% markup. And the artist don't see any of that money."
He further added:
"This is a great first step. I would love down the road if there would be some legislation where we could put a cap on the resale of tickets."
More information on the new executive order against ticket scalping signed by Donald Trump
According to the order signed by Donald Trump, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has to team up with the Attorney General for the competition rules to be followed correctly in the entertainment industry. The order also directs authorities to strictly use the BOTS Act and to keep the ticket prices clear and easy to understand when people buy them, even from resellers.
The FTC has to check if resellers are breaking the rules and, further, take necessary action to stop it.
The executive order also states:
"Treasury, the Department of Justice, and the FTC will also deliver a report within 180 days summarizing actions taken to address the issue of unfair practices in the live concert and entertainment industry and recommend additional regulations or legislation needed to protect consumers in this industry."
What is the BOTS Act?
The Better Online Ticket Sales Act, or BOTS Act, is a U.S. law passed in 2016. The act prevents illegal computer programs, called bots, from being used to buy event tickets online. The law aims to provide citizens with a fair chance to get tickets at the original prices.
A directive from the new executive order also states:
"While the BOTS Act—meant to stop scalpers from using bots to purchase tickets—has been on the books for over 8 years, the FTC has only once taken action to enforce this law."
Trending
As per the new order signed by Donald Trump, the Treasury, Department of Justice, and FTC have until September 27, 2025, to submit their report, following the order issued on March 31, 2025.
Your perspective matters!
Start the conversation
