More States Join DOJ’s Antitrust Case Against Live Nation-Ticketmaster

The legal battle against Live Nation-Ticketmaster’s alleged monopolistic practices intensified as ten additional states joined the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) ongoing civil antitrust lawsuit. This development marks a significant escalation in the case, reflecting growing concerns over the company’s dominance in the live entertainment sector.

According to Tampa Press, Attorneys General from Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Mexico, South Dakota, Utah and Vermont have officially backed the lawsuit, bringing the total number of co-plaintiff states to 40, alongside the District of Columbia. This coalition has been bolstered by an amended complaint recently filed in the Southern District of New York, which outlines accusations against Live Nation-Ticketmaster for violating Sections 1 and 2 of the Sherman Act. The complaint alleges that the company has engaged in anticompetitive practices aimed at maintaining its stronghold over the live event ticketing and promotion markets.

Per Tampa Press, the lawsuit seeks to address widespread concerns that Live Nation-Ticketmaster’s overwhelming control over key segments of the industry is leading to inflated prices, limited consumer choices and a lack of innovation. These concerns have driven a growing number of state officials to join forces with the DOJ, signaling a unified effort to challenge what they describe as unfair and monopolistic behavior.

Related: Live Nation May Face Antitrust Lawsuit

Attorney General Merrick B. Garland highlighted the stakes involved in this case, stating, “We allege that Live Nation relies on unlawful, anticompetitive conduct to exercise its monopolistic control over the live events industry in the United States at the cost of fans, artists, smaller promoters, and venue operators.” He emphasized that the repercussions of this control are far-reaching, with fans facing higher fees, artists encountering fewer performance opportunities, and smaller promoters being pushed out of the market.

According to Tampa Press, the DOJ and the expanding coalition of states are determined to ensure a competitive and fair marketplace within the live entertainment industry. This commitment aims to benefit both consumers and artists by fostering a more balanced playing field, free from the constraints of monopolistic practices.

Source: Tampa Press