Ohio bill would require pro teams to play on natural grass, not artificial turf

Associated Press

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Professional sports teams across Ohio would be required to use playing surfaces of not less than 90% natural grass under a new bill. State Rep. Rodney Creech said Tuesday that the bipartisan proposal is about player safety. It is backed by the NFL Players Association. The bill follows the Cincinnati Bengals’ decision to install a nearly $1 million synthetic turf surface at Paycor Stadium ahead of the 2024 NFL season. As artificial turf improves, many teams choose it to avoid the high maintenance and upkeep costs of natural grass. The Cleveland Browns and most baseball and soccer teams in Ohio already play on natural grass.