Ohio Supreme Court to weigh 'jock tax' arguments

COLUMBUS (AP) — The Ohio Supreme Court says it will hear arguments for and against Cleveland’s so-called “jock tax” early next year.

At issue is an Ohio law allowing cities to levy income tax on professional entertainers or athletes no matter how long or short a time they’re in the state.

Two ex-NFL players have sued over Cleveland’s interpretation of the law, saying Cleveland unfairly imposes a 2-percent income tax based on games played in the city as a percentage of total games played.

The players, former Chicago Bears linebacker Hunter Hillenmeyer and retired Indianapolis Colts center Jeff Saturday, say the city can only charge them based on days spent in the city, which comes out to a much lower rate.

The court scheduled a Jan. 14 hearing in the case.