Ruiz Introduces Common-Sense Legislation to Protecting Concertgoers
Bill provides concerts like the Coachella Festival with the same protections as major sporting events
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Raul Ruiz, M.D. (CA-36) announced H.R. 5827, the Protecting Outdoor Concerts Act, to keep workers, concertgoers, and Valley residents safe at major concert events. This common-sense legislation directs the FAA to authorize large outdoor concerts and music festivals to seek temporary flight restrictions to secure their airspace, providing them the same protections that major sporting events already have.
"I care about the safety of my constituents and concertgoers and the positive impact our festivals have on our economy," said Dr. Ruiz. "Current law denies major open-air concerts the same protections that are afforded to major sporting events. Whether an audience is protected shouldn't depend on whether they are watching a football team or listening to a band. My bill, the Protecting Outdoor Concerts Act would provide festivals like Coachella the same protections as other major events like the Rose Bowl or the Indy 500. With my bill, we will ensure the safety of workers, residents, and visitors alike at these events that drive economic growth in our region."
"As we welcome back fans to outdoor venues, AEG welcomes the introduction of the Protecting Outdoor Concerts Act," said Martha Saucedo, AEG's Chief External Affairs Officer. "AEG always places the safety of concert-goers first. We urge Congress to act on this important piece of legislation expeditiously."
BACKGROUND
Under current regulations, the FAA may only grant a temporary flight restriction (TFR) to protect persons or property, or to prevent the unsafe congestion of aircraft in the vicinity of an aerial demonstration or major sporting event. Major concerts are unable to apply for TFRs under current law.
H.R. 5827 would direct the FAA to add outdoor concerts or festivals with an attendance of 30,000 people or more per day to the list of eligible events.
In 2019, the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival hosted 99,000 per day at the Empire Polo Club in Indio.
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