In a notable move toward gender parity in sports, Oklahoma State Senator Mary Boren has secured bipartisan endorsement for a measure aimed at incorporating women's professional sports within the scope of the state's existing professional sports tax rebate program. The Senate gave its approval to Senate Bill 820 yesterday. Boren, representing Norman, underscored the growing fanbase for women's sports in the area, highlighting the impact it could have on the local economy and the professional opportunities for female athletes in Oklahoma.
As reported by the Oklahoma Senate, Boren stated, "In Norman, we’ve seen how fan excitement and enthusiasm for women’s sports like softball, soccer, and basketball has really exploded in recent years." She noted that Oklahoma City is the base for the professional women’s softball team, the Oklahoma City Spark, indicating that such enthusiasm should be met with equivalent economic incentives. Existing legislation prior to Boren's initiative, passed in the 2024 session, targeted only major men's leagues, including NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, and MLS for the said tax rebates.
Senator Boren's Bill 820 seeks to expand those tax privileges making them accessible to women's leagues namely the WNBA, WPF, and NWSL. With media coverage of women's sports on the rise since 2021, Boren pointed out the potential for the industry's continued growth and the financial benefits it could bring to the state. "Media coverage of women’s sports has tripled since 2021, and by 2024, the industry was expected to generate over $1 billion for the first time in global revenue," Boren said in a statement made by the Oklahoma Senate. By investing in this sector, Oklahoma stands to attract jobs and offer new prospects to world-class female athletes at home.
The passed bill by the Senate heads next to the House of Representatives for further deliberation. Spearheading the Bill 820 through the House as the principal author is Rep. Emily Gise, R-Oklahoma City. Gise, whose authorship signals bipartisan accord, will take up the mantle, hoping to see similar success in the lower chamber. The initiative signifies Oklahoma's commitment to elevating women’s sports to the same platform as their male counterparts, ensuring an equal playing field where recognition and economic support are concerned.
