The bill introduced by Senator DeMora aims to enact section 3345.88 of the Revised Code, which addresses the broadcasting of intercollegiate athletic competitions involving state universities. It defines key terms such as "university athletic event" and "state university," ensuring clarity in the context of the legislation. The bill stipulates that, to the extent permitted by federal law, state universities are prohibited from entering into or renewing contracts that grant exclusive media rights for broadcasting university athletic events to streaming services. This provision applies only to contracts made or renewed after the bill's effective date.
Additionally, the bill mandates that each state university must provide enrolled students with free access to observe any university athletic events that are broadcast in accordance with the specified contract conditions. The universities are given the discretion to determine how this access is provided to students, ensuring that they can engage with their athletic programs without financial barriers.