State Representative Cheryl Grossman (R-Grove City) and State Senator Jim Hughes (R-Columbus) are introducing companion legislation that will support a cause that helps children with special needs to engage in physical activity, specifically by playing baseball.
For more than a decade, the Miracle League of Central Ohio organization has raised funds to construct baseball fields uniquely tailored for kids who have both physical and mental disabilities. For example, fields feature a special rubberized, cushioned surface for children who require wheelchairs, crutches or walkers.
One field is located on Cosgray Road in Dublin.
A similar field will also be constructed in Grove City.
The legislation introduced by Grossman and Hughes would create a specialty license plate commemorating “Grove City Dream Field,” which people could purchase to help fund the project and to maintain the field and equipment. Out of the $25 fee to purchase the plates, $15 would be earmarked to the Dream Field Fund.
Although the legislation would be used to help fund a specialty baseball field in Grove City, Grossman said that this is part of a larger effort to help children with disabilities throughout Ohio and that similar measures could be adopted across the state.
“I have had the wonderful opportunity to watch children participate in this program,” Grossman said. “I am very pleased to sponsor this legislation for all children.”
Hughes said, “I have many fond childhood memories of long summer days spent playing baseball. It has been rewarding to work with Grove City and the Grove City Little League Board to extend this opportunity for every child in our community, regardless of physical ability.”
