OH HB255

Creates the Ohio Sports Commission within the Department of Development to attract, promote, and develop national and international sporting events to enhance the state's economy and image

Establishes a 17-member board of commissioners including the governor, director of development, four legislators (two from each chamber), representatives of student and professional athletes, convention and visitors' bureaus, local sports commissions, and private sports/tourism stakeholders

Requires the board to study sports tourism development, partner with stakeholders to attract events, develop policy recommendations, and study creation of a grant program for emerging sports economies

Mandates the commission issue a report of findings and recommendations to the governor and legislative leaders within six months of the law's effective date

Creates the Ohio Sports Commission Fund in the state treasury funded by transfers, grants, gifts, and contributions to cover commission operating costs; board members serve without compensation but receive expense reimbursement