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Rep. Creech introduces athlete safety bill to require natural grass playing fields

COLUMBUS — State Rep. Rodney Creech (R-West Alexandria) has introduced legislation to protect professional athletes by requiring professional sports stadiums to use natural grass fields. Creech is sponsoring the legislation alongside State Rep. Terrance Upchurch (D-Cleveland).

More specifically, the legislation will require professional stadiums to have fields that are at least 90% natural grass and maintained at industry standard levels for high performance field surfaces.

“Ohio has two fantastic NFL franchises that make up a large part of our economy and culture,” said Creech. “This legislation prioritizes the safety of our professional athletes and supports Ohio’s sports industry.” 

The bill is a direct response to the higher rate of injuries that take place on turf fields. Currently, 15 NFL stadiums use natural grass while 15 use synthetic turf. 

The legislation awaits a bill number and House committee assignment. 

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Comment

David Anthony Mayer (not verified)

20 May 2024

How about a focus on the huge real estate property tax increases recently and coming, which are a windfall of taxes that will be squandered by 88 County's Commissioners? This may benefit a few professional athletes. Focus on real world economic issues of inflation in food and shelter.

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