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Bandit Lites’ Michael T. Strickland discussed the industry’s struggles at the hearing.
At 10 a.m. on December 15, 2020, Jerry Moran (R, Kansas), the chairman of the congressional Subcommittee on Manufacturing, Trade, and Consumer Protection convened a hearing entitled, Examining the Impact of Covid-19 on the Live Event Entertainment Industry.
The hearing examined the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the live event entertainment industry and the challenges faced by artists and venues, as well as supporting industries such as lighting, sound and transportation. The hearing also explored proposals for legislative relief, unemployment compensation and healthcare subsidies.
Witnesses representing the live event industry included David Fay, president/CEO of The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts; Adam Hartke, owner of Cotillion and WAVE; Ron Laffitte, president of Patriot Management; Pete Pantuso, president/CEO American Bus Association; and Michael T. Strickland, founder and chair of Bandit Lites.
The hearing took place in the Russell Senate Office Building. Click here to see a video of the entire hearing with witness testimonies, and opening statements.
