Official announcements from Ohio State University

Ohio GOP Lawmaker Introduces O.H.I.O. Sportsmanship Act Making Flag Planting a Felony After Michigan's Victory

Dec 11, 2024, 04:15 PM

Ohio state Representative Josh Williams, a Republican, has introduced the O.H.I.O. Sportsmanship Act on Tuesday, aiming to make it a felony to plant a flag in the center of Ohio Stadium. The legislation comes in response to the University of Michigan football team planting their flag on the Ohio State University logo after their upset victory over the Buckeyes. Williams stated that "behavior that incites violent brawls and puts our law enforcement officers in danger has no place on the football field." The act specifically prohibits planting a flagpole with a flag attached in the center of the football field at Ohio Stadium, citing concerns for sportsmanship and public safety following the postgame melee between the two rival teams.