Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost and the city of Cleveland have filed motions to overturn the Browns’ lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the “Art Modell Law.” Yost argued that the law is clear and should be resolved at the state level, not in federal court. The Modell Law requires Ohio sports teams in taxpayer-funded facilities to give the affected municipality or residents the opportunity to purchase the team before moving.
The Browns’ legal battle with Cleveland involves the team’s desire to build a new stadium in Brook Park, while city leaders want to keep the team downtown. The Modell Law was passed in 1996 after the original Browns moved to Baltimore, and it was previously invoked in a case involving the Columbus Crew. Yost and the city’s attorney both argue that the Modell Law should be enforced and that the Browns accepted taxpayer money when they returned to the NFL in 1999.
Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb has emphasized the importance of protecting taxpayer investments in the Browns’ stadium. The Browns are considering moving to Brook Park, but studies have shown conflicting economic impacts of such a move. The team is seeking state funding for a new stadium, but state lawmakers are divided on providing financial assistance. The Browns’ lawsuit against the city is ongoing, with the Modell Law at the center of the dispute.
