Raleigh, N.C. — A new bill filed in the North Carolina State House would require schools to accept certain forms of payment at all high school athletic events.
House Bill 38, “Entry Fees for HS Interscholastic Events,” would require all schools to accept cash as a form of payment at high school events. In addition, it would require a Tar Heel Card for senior citizens cardholder be admitted to a high school athletic event free of charge.
The bill was filed in the State House on Tuesday by Rep. A. Reece Pyrtle Jr. (R-Rockingham). It has also been sponsored by Rep. Jason Saine (R-Lincoln), Rep. Ben T. Moss Jr. (R-Moore), Rep. Charles W. Miller (R-Brunswick), and Rep. Jarrod Lowery (R-Robeson).
HighSchoolOT has contacted Rep. Pyrtle and the N.C. High School Athletic Association for comment.
“When an admission fee is charged to an interscholastic athletic activity, cash shall be accepted as a form of payment for admissions at the time of the event,” the bill says.
The bill would not prevent schools from using digital ticketing companies, but it would require schools to also allow for cash payments.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many high schools have moved to digital ticketing systems, often times requiring attendees to purchase tickets through a mobile app. While this can help streamline the process for athletic administrators and people working the admission gate, it has raised concerns for some fans.
Over the last few years, long lines have been experienced where fans were purchasing tickets in line. There can be issues with connectivity at some schools as well. In addition, older adults attendees may not have compatible phones.
The second point in the bill addresses older adults specifically. If passed, HB 38 would require schools to allow free admission to anyone holding a Tar Heel Card for senior citizens issued by the Department of Health and Human Services.
If the bill is passed, it would go into effect for the 2023-2024 school year.
