HB 1003 - Ticket Sales Summary

• Enhances criminal penalties for fraudulent ticket creation or possession, making second and subsequent violations a third-degree felony with up to $10,000 fine, and making possession of 10 or more counterfeit tickets a third-degree felony.

• Requires ticket brokers to register with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services by April 1, 2015, maintain a permanent Florida office, pay annual registration fees, and comply with sales tax requirements.

• Mandates ticket brokers and resale websites disclose face value, seat location, ticket possession status, refund policies, and disclaimer that prices may exceed face value before resale transactions.

• Prohibits use of software to bypass ticket purchase security measures, disguise purchaser identity, or circumvent quantity limits, with violations constituting a second-degree misdemeanor and exposing violators to treble damages.

• Restricts resale websites from using venue, artist, or team trademarks without owner consent except for fair use, and establishes civil remedies for violations including attorney fees and treble damages.

• Effective date: October 1, 2014.