Dec. 11 (UPI) — An Ohio lawmaker proposed to make flag planting at Ohio Stadium a felonious act, less than two weeks after Michigan Wolverines players performed the ritual after they upset the Ohio State Buckeyes.
Republican state Rep. Josh Williams proposed the O.H.I.O. Sporstmanship Act on Tuesday in Columbus. The bill prohibits planting a flagpole and flag in the center of the Ohio Stadium field on the day of a college football game, before, during or after the competition.
Those who violate the proposed law could be charged with a fifth-degree felony, which is punishable with six to 12 months of imprisonment and fine up to $2,500.
“I am proud to introduce the O.H.I.O Sportsmanship Act to make flag planting at midfield a felony in the state of Ohio,” Williams wrote Wednesday on X. “Behavior that incites violent brawls and puts our law enforcement officers in danger has no place on the football field.”
Several Wolverines players slammed a flag, which featured the Michigan logo, into the Ohio State logo at midfield after beating the Buckeyes on Nov. 30 in Columbus.
Buckeyes players responded by charging into the Wolverines, exchanging shoves and punches. Police used pepper spray in an attempt to diffuse the brawl. The players were eventually separated and went into their respective locker rooms.
Ohio State University police are still investigating the skirmish, which resulted in an injury to an officer. The Big Ten fined Ohio State and Michigan $100,000 apiece for the incident.
The General Assembly in Ohio closes next week, which could result in a reintroduction of the O.H.I.O. Sportsmanship Act for its next cycle in 2025.
