The Ohio Senate Republicans have introduced a budget proposal that could significantly impact Cuyahoga County's financial relationship with the Cleveland Browns. This plan would mandate the county to continue allocating one-third of its "sin tax" revenue to the Browns, even if the team relocates to suburban Brook Park. Additionally, voters may be asked to approve a liquor tax increase from $3 per gallon to $6 per gallon to fund stadium construction or maintenance. If enacted, this legislation would represent a substantial victory for the Browns, who are also set to receive $600 million in state funds for their new stadium project estimated at $2.4 billion.

The Browns have long benefited from a third of the approximately $13 million annually generated by the county’s sin tax on alcohol and tobacco products. Traditionally, these funds were divided among three local sports venues—Huntington Bank Field (Browns), Progressive Field (Cleveland Guardians), and Rocket Arena (Cleveland Cavaliers). However, this allocation was based on an agreement between the county and the city of Cleveland rather than legal obligation. The proposed budget aims to codify this arrangement into state law, ensuring that the Browns retain their share of the sin tax revenue should they move to Brook Park until 2035.

Cuyahoga County officials have sought permission to raise the sin tax rate to cover maintenance costs for Rocket Arena and Progressive Field. Currently, the county's sin tax includes $3 per gallon on liquor, 1.5 cents per 12-ounce can of beer, 6 cents per bottle of wine, and 4.5 cents per pack of cigarettes. Concerns have been raised by the Cleveland Cavaliers regarding the potential use of increased sin tax revenue for a new Browns stadium, fearing it might jeopardize efforts to secure such funds for other projects. County Executive Chris Ronayne criticized the Senate's proposal, stating that the planned increase falls short of meeting the maintenance needs of the Guardians and Cavaliers.

Senate Finance Committee Chair Jerry Cirino emphasized the importance of equitable distribution of sin tax funds among Cuyahoga County sports teams, regardless of location. While acknowledging that any tax increase requires voter approval, Cirino expressed opposition to raising the current sin tax. The fate of this proposal now rests with the Ohio House of Representatives and Governor Mike DeWine, who holds the power to veto individual parts of the budget. Final negotiations will likely occur in closed-door sessions involving lawmakers from both chambers before June 30.

This legislative maneuvering underscores the complex interplay between government policy, public opinion, and private enterprise in shaping the future of professional sports infrastructure in Ohio. As discussions unfold, stakeholders must carefully weigh the economic implications and public sentiment surrounding these financial arrangements.