The Public Access to Professional Sports Act amends the Revised Code to regulate the allocation of public funds for sports facilities in Ohio, linking funding to the performance of professional sports franchises. The bill stipulates that no state funds can be allocated to a sports facility unless the franchise has an agreement with the Ohio facilities construction commission, ensuring public access to all games and prohibiting exclusive agreements with subscription-based streaming services. It introduces new definitions, such as "professional sports franchise," and requires franchises to submit annual compliance reports detailing the use of state funds and game accessibility. Additionally, franchises must have a winning record in at least half of their games over three of the last five seasons to qualify for funding, with penalties for non-compliance.

The bill also emphasizes community engagement, mandating franchises to conduct charitable activities and provide discounted tickets for low-income individuals, students, and veterans. It requires transparency in financial dealings, with franchises obligated to disclose funding details on the county's website. Penalties for non-compliance include fines up to $250,000 and potential ineligibility for further county funds for five years. If a franchise leaves the state, it must reimburse the county for all funds received. The existing sections of the Revised Code related to these matters are repealed, and the new provisions will take effect 180 days after the bill's passage.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 123.28, 123.281, 307.696