Ohio state senator introduces bill to stop Ohio State games from being broadcast on streaming services

Senator Bill DeMora’s Proposal to Preserve Access to College Sports

Ohio State Senator Bill DeMora has introduced a bill aimed at ensuring that Ohio’s state universities, including Ohio State, continue to make their sports games accessible to all, rather than exclusively on streaming platforms. This initiative comes in response to the growing trend of universities partnering with streaming services, which can limit access for those who cannot afford or prefer not to use these platforms.

The Shift to Streaming and Its Impact

The rise of streaming services like Peacock, Amazon Prime, and Netflix has transformed how sports are consumed. These platforms have acquired exclusive rights to broadcast events, shifting away from traditional television. While this shift offers new opportunities for revenue and wider reach, it has also created challenges, particularly for small businesses such as bars and restaurants that rely on broadcasting games to attract customers. These establishments often find the costs of streaming contracts prohibitive, leading to a loss of business and community engagement.

Genesis of the Bill

Senator DeMora’s decision to propose this legislation was prompted by a personal experience when an Ohio State game against Purdue was exclusively available on Peacock. This marked the first time in nearly two decades that he was unable to watch a game on regular television, highlighting the growing inaccessibility of sports for many fans. This incident underscored the broader issue of exclusivity in sports broadcasting and its impact on both individuals and small businesses.

The Big Ten Deal and Its Implications

The Big Ten conference, which includes Ohio State, signed a seven-year deal with Peacock in 2022, leading to many of its games being exclusive to the platform. While this deal generates significant revenue, it has raised concerns about accessibility and fairness. Fans and businesses that have long supported these teams are now finding it difficult to watch games without paying for multiple streaming services, creating a barrier to engagement.

Aims of the Legislation

The proposed bill seeks to address these concerns by requiring state universities to ensure that their sports events remain accessible to students and the public without additional costs. Specifically, it mandates that enrolled students have free access to these events. This approach aims to maintain the tradition of watching sports on television while accommodating those who prefer streaming, ensuring that no one is excluded due to financial constraints.

Balancing Tradition and Modernity

The debate surrounding this bill reflects a broader discussion about the balance between modern technology and accessibility. While streaming offers innovative ways to consume sports, it is crucial to consider the impact on those who cannot keep up with the cost. Senator DeMora’s proposal is a step towards preserving the inclusivity of sports, ensuring that the community remains connected to their teams regardless of their ability to pay for premium services.

In conclusion, Senator DeMora’s bill represents an effort to navigate the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting, advocating for a model that blends traditional access with modern streaming options. As this legislation moves forward, it may set a precedent for other states and spark further conversations about the future of sports accessibility.