Senate Rules and Administration Chairwoman Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) introduced legislation Monday that would punish people who scalp tickets for the upcoming inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama.

Feinstein introduced the bill to make it illegal to sell tickets for the presidential inauguration celebration on Jan. 20. The highly anticipated event already has attracted the interest of scalpers and buyers alike, with Web sites such as eBay and Craigslist trying to tap into the market.

Some 240,000 tickets will be doled out to Members of Congress to give, without charge, to their constituents.

“The inauguration of the president of the United States is one of the most important rituals in our democracy and the chance to witness this solemn event should not be bought and sold like tickets to a football game,” Feinstein said. “This is a dignified and critical moment of transition in our government.”