Industry News

Detroit tickets could fund emergency services

Detroit could see its concert tickets hit with a $3 tax as lawmakers look for new ways to support its emergency services.

The proposed legislation in Michigan would see all entertainment events at venues with at least 5,000 seats in cities with a population of at least half a million charging a $3-per-ticket tax. Detroit is the only municipality that would qualify under the law.

State senator Coleman Young II, the bill’s sponsor, said that the revenue would be equally distributed between the city’s police force, its fire brigade and its emergency medical services.

“This is not a tax for revenue-raising purposes,” said Young, according to the Detroit Free Press. “I’m levying it so police officers, firefighters and emergency personnel can provide their services at an optimal rate.”

However, according to the local newspaper, the bill is unlikely to pass the Republican-controlled Senate and House of Representatives – especially at a time when Republican president Donald Trump is slashing taxes on a national level.

Ed Sheeran, Pink and Justin Timberlake are among the artists due to play in Detroit this year. Both U2 and Guns N Roses played the city in 2017.

Image: DetroitAngel