Quebec introduces new legislation to target ticket scalping and hidden subscription renewals, with Justice Minister Simon Jolin-Barrette unveiling a bill that proposes significant changes to the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) in the province.
During a news conference in Quebec City, Jolin-Barrette emphasized the need to address the lack of profit sharing with the Quebec entertainment industry and artists due to resellers. He described the companies engaging in these practices as detrimental parasites on Quebec culture.
The proposed law mandates that ticket resale platforms must clearly and prominently disclose their status as resale platforms, informing consumers that tickets may be available at lower prices from the official seller. Sara Eve Levac, a lawyer from consumer advocacy group Option consommateurs, highlighted the importance of transparency in ticket purchasing to prevent confusion between official and resale tickets.
The legislation requires sites selling both primary and resale tickets to distinctly identify resale tickets at the same time and in the same manner. Resellers must provide specific details to consumers, including the seat location and the previous ticket owner’s name if applicable. Additionally, resale prices cannot surpass the original price set by the official seller unless explicitly authorized by the event producer, with any additional fees for ticket transfers deemed illegal.
In case of event cancellations, producers must promptly notify both official sellers and authorized resellers, who are then obligated to inform ticket buyers immediately. Levac acknowledged existing protections but noted that the new bill aims to strengthen these regulations to enhance consumer awareness and prevent unfair pricing practices.
Furthermore, the legislation enhances rules for canceling online subscriptions and gym memberships, requiring merchants to offer a prominent one-click cancellation option for contracts terminable without cause. Consumers must be alerted about upcoming price adjustments within a specific timeframe before the end of promotional periods or introductory subscriptions.
The bill also addresses transparency in pricing by mandating that cable and telecommunication companies clearly display additional fees alongside advertised prices. Provisions forbid companies from prohibiting customers from posting honest reviews and require automatic refunds for unauthorized charges under the CPA.
Violations of the new rules may result in fines, ranging from $750 for individuals to $1,500 for companies per violation related to subscription regulations. Severe or repeated ticket-resale breaches could incur fines up to $175,000, aligning with existing CPA penalties.
Most provisions of the bill are expected to take effect three months after receiving royal assent, aiming to safeguard consumer rights and promote fair practices in Quebec.