Warning of potential “price gouging,” a group of congressional Democrats wants the Federal Trade Commission to survey concession prices at major airports and sports venues. 

In a letter, obtained first by Spectrum News NY1, the Democrats — led by New York Rep. Dan Goldman — are urging a House Appropriations subcommittee to insert language in an upcoming budget bill, requiring the FTC to conduct the study.

“A nationwide survey of concession prices and street pricing practices at these venues would allow the FTC, lawmakers, and most importantly, fans and travelers, to gain more transparency into potential price gouging by venues and determine what sustainable, affordable practices work best,” the lawmakers wrote.

In an interview, Goldman, a New York Knicks fan who recently appeared on camera in the stands during TNT’s coverage of the NBA playoffs, invoked his own personal experience.

“I go to these arenas and realize I have no other option … If I want to get a beer at Madison Square Garden, it's going to cost me $16,” he said. “The average beer in New York is, I think, around $8.”

In particular, Goldman and his colleagues are raising concerns about stadiums and airports that receive financial and tax support from the government.

In the letter, they wrote, “Despite the significant public investment into airports and sports venues, through direct grants, state and local tax credits, economic development incentives, and tax-exempt bonds, the cost of concessions at a ballgame or an airport remains unaffordable for the average American family.”

Other lawmakers signing the letter include Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of the Bronx and Josh Gottheimer of New Jersey. 

Looking at New York venues, a recent media survey listed the average price of a beer at Madison Square Garden, home to the Knicks, at $16.11. A separate survey pegged the price of a beer at Bills Stadium in Buffalo at $9.40 last year.

Madison Square Garden has been exempt from property taxes by the state legislature since the 1980s. Meanwhile, financing for the new, under-construction Bills stadium includes $850 million in state and county funding.

“We have an interest in making sure that the federal dollars are being used for the benefit of the people, not just the benefit of the corporations or the owners,” Goldman said.

Spectrum News NY1 has reached out to Madison Square Garden and the Bills for comment.