Governor Gavin Newsom is signing a new law banning the sale of so-called “ghost tickets” in California. These are tickets that resellers advertise or list for sale before they actually have the tickets in their possession or have the legal right to receive them. The practice, also known as speculative ticket sales, is common on some ticket resale platforms. Under the new law, resellers cannot advertise, list or sell tickets they do not possess unless the event presenter or venue gives permission. The measure follows a series of complaints from consumers who purchased tickets through speculative listings. The law also prohibits the use of software designed to get around ticket limits, online queues and presale restrictions. Supporters say the changes are intended to provide greater transparency for fans and prevent deceptive ticket sales practices. The new rules will affect ticket resellers and platforms operating in California, while venues and event presenters will retain the ability to authorize certain ticket listings.
