Deserted Cities Get Boost

Professional football, hockey and basketball leagues could be forced to replace teams that move out of town under legislation that won House Judiciary Committee approval.

The committee advanced a bill by Rep. Martin Hoke, R-Ohio, to “do right by sports fans and communities” by guaranteeing an expansion team to a deserted city that is able to find a qualified investor within three years. The bill also requires teams that want to move to give their current home towns at least six months’ notice.