(AP) -- A panel of lawmakers has rejected a bill that would create a state law requiring South Carolina and Clemson play football every year.
The House Higher Education Subcommittee voted down the bill Wednesday. Members say the government has no business scheduling football games.
Chapin Republican Nathan Ballentine sponsored the bill. He says he wanted to make sure Clemson and South Carolina played every year, even if college football conferences undergo more realignment. Texas A&M's recent move to the Southeastern Conference ended its long rivalry with Texas.
Athletic officials at both Clemson and South Carolina also opposed the bill, saying lawmakers should stay out of their scheduling.
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