I think it might be appropriate to start a seperate thread for discussion of the Modell Law, as currently discussion is spread across a few threads.

 

Sports Illustrated has a good article explaining the law and how it fits into the #SaveTheCrew drama.

https://www.si.com/soccer/2018/03/06/columbus-crew-lawsuit-austin-texas-relocation-precourt-mls-ohio-modell-law

Besides possibly preventing the Crew from moving to Austin, this law and lawsuit have a few other potential ramifications:

 

FC Cincinnati: MLS was probably already reluctant to have two Ohio teams. Now this law adds a lot of uncertainty to a Cincinnati expansion. Of course, if the Newport, KY site is used, it's a moot point.

 

Cincinnati Bengals: The Bengals lease ends in 2026, and could potentially end earlier. If the Modell Law is upheld, it would reduce Mike Brown's bargaining power and prevent a team move.

Some detail on the potential of a Bengals relocation: https://www.cincyjungle.com/2017/12/10/16755860/could-the-bengals-be-leaving-cincinnati-in-the-near-future

 

Browns/Cavs/Indians/Reds/Blue Jackets: The owners of these teams will be watching this lawsuit closely. If it is upheld, it will impact the valuations of each of these teams.

 

Pro sports in the rest of the country: If the law is upheld, many other states will rush to implement similar laws. Obviously this would have an enormous impact on American sports and the franchise model of the Big 4/5. The other leagues will likely help the MLS and the Crew defend this lawsuit to prevent this from happening.

I don't think the Moddell law has much teeth especially in this situation. The biggest thing that Precourt needs to fear about the Moddell law is that it is untested and could be a wrench that delays things and makes the move much more expensive.  As the article points out, courts are loathe to order specific performance in most cases and there are a number of federal issues at play here that would limit its enforceability.  This would be a breach of contract issue and pretty much the only way to handle breach of contract issues is through monetary damages (specific performance is such a rarity).

 

The only hope under this law is that it frustrates Precourt into selling the team.