Lansing, December 24, 2025
Michigan has enacted the Event Online Ticket Sales Act, targeting automated bots that hoard event tickets and inflate prices, ensuring fair access for consumers. This legislation empowers the Michigan Attorney General to impose penalties on violators, aligning with federal regulations. By tackling ticket scalping, the law promotes a healthier marketplace for local event-goers and businesses.
Michigan Enforces Anti-Bot Legislation to Protect Event Ticket Buyers
New law aims to level the playing field for concert and event enthusiasts
Lansing, Michigan – In a significant move for consumers and local event-goers, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has enacted the Event Online Ticket Sales Act, popularly referred to as the “Taylor Swift bills.” This new legislation seeks to curb the practices of automated bots that hoard event tickets, resulting in skyrocketing prices and diminished access for everyday fans. By addressing this growing concern, Michigan is taking a stand to ensure a fairer marketplace for all consumers.
The law aligns closely with the federal Better Online Ticket Sales (BOTS) Act and empowers the Michigan Attorney General to impose civil penalties of up to $5,000 per violation on those caught using bots to snatch up ticket sales. This proactive law supports the notion that individuals and families should have unimpeded access to entertainment experiences without the interference of digital scalping.
What the Legislation Entails
Comprising Senate Bill 158 and House Bill 4262, this legislation specifically targets individuals using automated software to buy large volumes of tickets to concerts, sporting events, and shows. The concern arose from notable incidents where bots flooded the ticketing market during high-profile events like Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour. Such practices not only inflate prices but also make it increasingly challenging for true fans to secure tickets at reasonable rates.
Addressing a Growing Problem
The introduction of the Event Online Ticket Sales Act stems from widespread frustration among consumers over ticket scalping. During Taylor Swift’s tour in 2022, tales of bots quickly consuming large ticket allotments, leading to inflated resale prices on secondary markets, sparked public outrage. By instituting this new law, Michigan aims to tackle these issues head-on, joining a growing list of states that are proactively countering ticket-buying bots.
Comparison to National Standards
Michigan’s law mirrors the federal BOTS Act, reinforcing nationwide efforts to curb automated ticket purchasing. By echoing established federal guidelines, Michigan reaffirms its commitment to consumer protection, ensuring all individuals have equal opportunity to purchase tickets without being outpaced by technology.
Implications for Michigan Consumers and Businesses
The passage of this legislation is not just a win for consumers; it also serves to underscore a broader theme relevant to Michigan’s economy—support for small businesses and local entrepreneurs. By limiting the impact of scalping practices, local businesses that rely on event ticket sales can operate in a healthier environment, promoting fair competition. Consumers are likely to experience a more accessible market, leading to increased attendance at events and contributing positively to Michigan’s overall economy.
Conclusion
The enactment of the Event Online Ticket Sales Act is a significant step in ensuring that Michigan’s event landscape remains accessible, equitable, and fair for all consumers. As community members continue to engage in local events, it’s essential to support legislation that prioritizes the interests of Michigan consumers, thereby enhancing the state’s economic growth. Engaging with local businesses and staying informed about upcoming events ensures a thriving cultural and economic environment in Detroit and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Event Online Ticket Sales Act?
- The Event Online Ticket Sales Act, known as the “Taylor Swift bills,” is legislation signed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer to prevent automated bots from purchasing large quantities of event tickets, thereby inflating prices and limiting access for regular consumers.
- What penalties are imposed under this law?
- The law authorizes the Michigan Attorney General to pursue civil penalties of up to $5,000 per violation against individuals using bots to acquire tickets.
- Which bills are included in this legislation?
- The legislation includes Senate Bill 158 and House Bill 4262, which collectively prohibit the use of bots to buy large numbers of tickets to concerts, sporting events, and shows.
- Why was this legislation introduced?
- The bills were introduced in response to widespread concerns over ticket scalping, particularly during high-demand events like Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, where automated bots quickly purchased tickets, leading to inflated resale prices and limited availability for fans.
- How does Michigan’s law compare to federal regulations?
- The new law mirrors the federal Better Online Ticket Sales (BOTS) Act, aiming to ensure fair access to event tickets for all consumers.
| Key Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Legislation Name | Event Online Ticket Sales Act, known as the “Taylor Swift bills” |
| Governor | Gretchen Whitmer |
| Purpose | Prevent automated bots from purchasing large quantities of event tickets, inflating prices, and limiting access for regular consumers |
| Penalties | Civil penalties of up to $5,000 per violation against individuals using bots to acquire tickets |
| Included Bills | Senate Bill 158 and House Bill 4262 |
| Comparison to Federal Law | Mirrors the federal Better Online Ticket Sales (BOTS) Act |
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Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
