Massachusetts proposes 110% cap on ticket resale prices

Governor Maura Healey announced legislation that would limit the resale price of concert and sports tickets in Massachusetts to no more than 110% of the original face value and cap reseller fees at 10%. The bill targets the secondary market, allowing a higher resale threshold only if an artist or venue provides written consent. Folk singer Noah Kahan appeared in a video supporting the measure, which aims to make live events more affordable for fans.

Industry representatives, including Ticket Policy Forum executive director Brian Berry, criticize the proposal for leaving primary‑sale pricing practices untouched, noting that roughly 90% of ticket costs are set before the secondary market. State Senator Dylan Fernandes highlighted examples of inflated resale listings for Kahan’s Fenway Park shows. Supporters argue the cap will curb speculative pricing and keep more money in local economies, while opponents warn it could restrict legitimate resale activity without addressing underlying price hikes.