Activist Calls for Legislative Action Against Ticket Resale Price Gouging

The rising cost of resale tickets for major events in the Waterloo Region has prompted calls for legislative action to combat price gouging. During the recent playoff run of the Toronto Blue Jays, Premier Doug Ford condemned ticket resellers for exorbitant prices, citing examples of lower bowl seats for the World Series being sold for as much as $10,000. Despite these criticisms, Ford’s government has yet to implement any significant measures to address the issue.

Dave Ottenbrite, founding director of Galt Jazz and chair of the Cambridge Jazz Festival, expressed his discontent with the current situation. “I think it’s just totally unethical and immoral to be carting off millions of dollars that they charged in resale ticket prices,” he stated. Ottenbrite pointed out that the profits from ticket resales often benefit corporations in the United States rather than local communities.

In an effort to spur action, Ottenbrite reached out to Cambridge MPP Brian Riddell, urging him to advocate for legislative reform. He noted, “Ford is able to enact legislation very quickly,” referencing the Premier’s swift actions to eliminate bike lanes and speed cameras, which he claimed were perceived as gouging the public. Ottenbrite highlighted the need for a similar response to the ticket resale market, questioning the flow of money from resales and its impact on local economies.

Riddell responded to Ottenbrite’s concerns in a statement to 570 NewsRadio, emphasizing that the government is actively reviewing ticketing issues. He noted, “The Premier has made clear we’re examining the scope of ticketing issues and whether legislative solutions are needed.” The Ticket Sales Act was mentioned as a measure that already provides protections by banning bots, ensuring full disclosure in Canadian dollars, and guaranteeing the validity of resale tickets or refunds.

Historically, Ford’s government has been hesitant to address ticket scalping directly. In 2018, an attempt to introduce anti-scalping laws, which would have prohibited the resale of tickets at markups exceeding 50 percent, was sidelined. As public frustration grows over the lack of action, advocates like Ottenbrite continue to push for reforms that prioritize consumer interests and transparency in the ticket sales industry.

The ongoing debate highlights a broader conversation about fairness in ticket pricing and the need for stronger regulations to protect fans from exploitative practices. As the landscape of ticket sales evolves, the pressure on government officials to take decisive action continues to mount.