Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.
Ten more states have joined the DOJ’s antitrust lawsuit against Ticketmaster and Live Nation, bringing the total to 39 states.
Let’s bring you up to speed: Back in May of 2023, the Department of Justice (DOJ) filed an antitrust lawsuit against Ticketmaster and its parent company, Live Nation, accusing them of monopolistic practices that dominate the live concert industry. The lawsuit claims that Live Nation and Ticketmaster have unlawfully inflated ticket prices, blocked competition, and stifled innovation by controlling critical aspects of the live music industry, such as concert promotions and ticket sales. The DOJ is seeking damages under federal anti-monopoly law to dismantle the companies’ market dominance and restore competitive fairness in the industry.
Which states just joined the lawsuit: Ten states—Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Mexico, South Dakota, Utah, and Vermont—have recently joined the ongoing antitrust lawsuit against Ticketmaster and Live Nation.
Attorney Generals react:
New York Attorney General Letitia James (D), whose state has been involved with the lawsuit, said, “It’s time for a new era where fans, venues, and artists are not taken advantage of by big corporations that run the world of live events.”
Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird (R) responded to joining the lawsuit, saying, “When companies like Live Nation and Ticketmaster form monopolies, Americans are left to pay the price. I am suing to uphold the law and ensure that no American has to grapple with inflated prices or poor customer service because Live Nation and Ticketmaster have stifled competition.”
New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez (D) said, “Joining this litigation reaffirms our commitment to protecting consumers and ensuring a level playing field in the marketplace. The monopolistic practices of Live Nation-Ticketmaster have harmed not only the live entertainment industry but also the countless fans who deserve fair access to events.”
