South Ohio News

State Senator Shane Wilkin (R-Hillsboro) has introduced Senate Bill 181, which aims to equalize ticket prices for high school athletic events in Ohio. This legislation comes in response to the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) charging higher prices for cash tickets compared to other payment methods.

Senator Wilkin criticized the OHSAA's decision, calling it a "shameful move" that targets students and their families. He stated, "Senate Bill 181 matches ticket prices regardless of how someone purchases them, allowing every student, parent, and grandparent the opportunity to watch the game." Senator Wilkin also highlighted his previous involvement in drafting the budget amendment and pledged to fight for equal and accessible payment options for families.

The main provision of Senate Bill 181 is the update to the definition of qualifying schools. It now includes interscholastic conferences or organizations that regulate these conferences or interscholastic athletic competitions among member schools. This change ensures that every entity charging for these events is held to the same standards under the law.

The legislation sets out several requirements for qualifying schools. Firstly, they must charge the same price for cash payments as for any other forms of payment. Additionally, students enrolled in any participating school should be charged less than the adult ticket price for the event. The bill also mandates that schools offer a cash payment option for concessions. Finally, if a school does not accept cash payments, individuals who can pay for a ticket in cash on the day of the event must be granted free entry.

Senate Bill 181 is now awaiting assignment to a committee. If passed, this legislation will ensure that all high school athletic events in Ohio have equal ticket prices, regardless of the payment method used.

In conclusion, Senator Shane Wilkin has introduced Senate Bill 181, which aims to equalize ticket prices for high school athletic events in Ohio. This legislation addresses the issue of the Ohio High School Athletic Association charging higher prices for cash tickets. Senator Wilkin's bill seeks to provide equal and accessible payment options for students, parents, and grandparents, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to watch the games. The legislation also updates the definition of qualifying schools and sets out requirements for these schools to charge the same price for cash and other payment methods. Senate Bill 181 is now awaiting assignment to a committee.

To find out more, go to this link: https://ohiosenate.gov/members/shane-wilkin/news/wilkin-introduces-bill-equalizing-high-school-athletic-ticket-prices