Consumer Affordability Concessions Act

Summary#

This bill would set rules for large stadiums that receive public funding. It requires those stadiums to try to give small businesses space to sell food and other concessions. It also says concessions sold under stadium leases cannot cost more than 7 percent above the market rate. Covered stadiums could not charge small businesses a fee just for the right to sell at events, though stadiums could recover actual operating costs, utilities, or equipment costs and could use normal commercial leases. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) would enforce these rules as unfair or deceptive acts under the FTC Act.

What it means for you#

• If you attend events at a covered stadium, concession prices would be limited to no more than 7% above comparable prices in the nearest metropolitan area (as defined by the Office of Management and Budget).
• Small businesses could get more chances to lease concession space and cannot be charged a general "right to sell" fee, although they may still pay for actual operating expenses or equipment.
• Stadiums that get public funding and seat at least 10,000 people must follow these rules. The rules do not apply to venues at institutions of higher education.

Expenses#

No publicly available information on the bill's costs, budgetary impact, or any estimated expenses for stadiums, small businesses, the FTC, or other entities.

Proponents' View#

The bill text shows its purpose: to make concessions more affordable for patrons and to create opportunities for small businesses to sell at publicly funded large stadiums. It does this by capping concession prices relative to local market rates, encouraging concession providers to offer space to small businesses, and banning fees just for the right to sell.

Opponents' View#

No publicly available information.