Congress passes BOTS Act - "You shouldnt have to fight robots just to see something you love."

[True Earthling]

Congress passes BOTS Act to ban ticket-buying software

http://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2016/12/congress-passes-bots-act-to-ban-ticket-buying-software/

"I want the thousands of tickets for shows, concerts, and sporting events that are now purchased by bots and resold at higher prices to go into the general market so that you have a chance to get them," wrote Lin-Manuel Miranda, creator of the hit musical "Hamilton," in a New York Times op-ed in June. "You shouldn’t have to fight robots just to see something you love."

The Better Online Ticket Sales (BOTS) Act makes it illegal to bypass any computer security system designed to limit ticket sales to concerts, Broadway musicals, and other public events with a capacity of more than 200 persons. Violations will be treated as "unfair or deceptive acts" and can be prosecuted by the Federal Trade Commission or the states.

Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), who sponsored the bill, told The Associated Press that he intends to "level the playing field" for people buying tickets.

"The need to end this growing practice is reflected in the bill's widespread support," Moran said.

The bill passed the Senate by unanimous consent last week, and the House of Representatives voted yesterday to pass it as well. It now proceeds to President Barack Obama for his signature.

[skylucy]

1. As someone who loves going to concerts, I am thrilled to see this bill being passed!

The bots (brokers) purchase all the good seats and sell them for inflated prices. I only hope to be able to get good seats to see some of my favorite rockers before Trump causes a nuclear holocaust.