NFL players join support to ban synthetic turf in Ohio pro stadiums

(The Center Square) – Just after the Cincinnati Bengals spent $1 million on new synthetic turf, legislation is moving forward to require professional sports teams in Ohio to play their games on natural grass.

The Bengals are the only professional team in the state that plays on synthetic turf.

Rep. Rodney Creech, R-West Alexandria, calls the bill a way to protect professional athletes and the NFL Players Association agrees.

“Employees must have faith that their employer is providing conditions suitable to job success and their health and safety,” Creech said during the news conference this week. “This bill will not only support Ohio’s sports industry, but it will do just that: it will prioritize the safety of our professional athletes in their workplace.”

Creech and Rep. Terrance Upchurch, D-Cleveland, introduced House Bill 605 in late May . It would require professional stadiums to maintain at least 90% natural grass fields at industry-standard levels for high-performance field surfaces.

The Bengals play in Paycor Stadium, an outdoor stadium with synthetic turf since 2004 that was replaced this summer. The stadium opened in 2000.

The Cleveland Browns, who play on natural grass, continue to push for a new stadium, which could include a dome. That likely would mean a turf field.

The bill does not address the countless synthetic turf high school football, soccer, baseball, lacrosse and softball fields. It also doesn’t mention numerous college and university fields throughout the state, including Ohio Stadium.

Andrew Morris, the NFL Players Association's public policy counsel, said players’ safety should be a priority.

“As leaders and advocates for player health and safety, we appreciate this bipartisan push to address an important issue for our members,” Morris said. “Our hope is that all in the Ohio Legislature support this bill, which is in the best interests of all athletes. We commend Representatives Creech and Upchurch for their work.”

Currently, 15 NFL stadiums use natural grass, and 15 use turf.

HB605 has yet to have a hearing in the Ohio House.