HB1044 Summary

• Creates a new Class B misdemeanor offense for knowingly selling, distributing, or possessing software designed to interfere with online ticket sales by circumventing security measures, access controls, or equitable buying process controls on ticket seller websites.

• Applies the offense to software targeting tickets for sporting events, theaters, musical performances, or any public entertainment or amusement venues sold over the Internet.

• Protects telecommunications carriers, commercial mobile service providers, Internet service providers, and hosting service providers from liability under computer tampering laws except in cases of willful and wanton misconduct.

• Adds Section 16D-3(a-7) to the Criminal Code of 1961 establishing the ticket-resale software offense alongside existing computer tampering prohibitions.

• Classifies the violation as a Class B misdemeanor, consistent with penalties for other unauthorized software distribution offenses under existing subsections (a-5).