Concert and sports fans in Washington, D.C. have reason to celebrate: the nation’s capital has adopted the strictest anti-scalping ticketing policy in the entire country, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The new policy puts D.C. at the forefront of a growing national conversation about fair access to live events, and it signals a meaningful commitment to making sure tickets end up in the hands of real fans rather than resellers looking to profit.

For years, scalping has been a frustration for D.C. residents hoping to attend everything from major concerts at venues like Capital One Arena to sporting events featuring hometown favorites. Tickets would routinely disappear within minutes of going on sale, only to reappear on secondary markets at dramatically inflated prices — putting live entertainment out of reach for many community members and families.

With this new policy now in place, Washington, D.C. sets a bold standard that other cities and states may look to follow. By cracking down harder on ticket scalping than any other jurisdiction in the nation, local officials are sending a clear message: live events should be accessible and affordable for the people who call this city home.

The move is a welcome development for the D.C. community, arriving at a moment when the city’s entertainment scene is buzzing. This weekend alone, the Washington Times has rounded up 71 things to do across the city from July 17–19, reflecting just how vibrant and active the local events calendar remains. With fairer ticketing rules now on the books, more residents will have a genuine shot at being part of the action — whether that means catching a World Cup watch party, a summer concert, or any of the dozens of other experiences the city has to offer.

For D.C. fans, the message is simple and uplifting: your city is looking out for you.

Sources: The Hollywood Reporter, Washington Times