Reps. Jarrells, Miller Testify on Bipartisan Legislation to Create the Ohio Sports Commission

COLUMBUS — Assistant Minority Leader Dontavius L. Jarrells (D-Columbus) and State Rep. Melanie Miller (R- Ashland) today delivered sponsor testimony before the Ohio House Arts, Athletics, and Tourism Committee on House Bill (HB) 255. The bipartisan legislation would create The Ohio Sports Commission, consisting of a board of commissioners, to enhance the quality of life in Ohio through the attraction, promotion, and development of national and international sports.  

“While we can point to the remarkable success stories of the impacts of the sports industry in cities like Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati, the reality is that we do not have a complete understanding of the full economic, cultural, and social impact of sports on every community in Ohio. House Bill 255 provides the framework to ensure that every region of Ohio shares in the economic and social benefits of the sports industry. By establishing the Ohio Sports Commission, we are taking a bold step to grow our economy, showcase our state on the national and international stage, and create a framework for sustained success in sports tourism for generations to come, ” said Rep. Jarrells. 

HB 255 also establishes the Ohio Sports Commission Fund, to be used to support the commission and to provide grants to public and private entities that fulfill the stated purpose of the commission.

HB 255 awaits further action from the Ohio House Arts, Athletics, and Tourism Committee.