Missouri Passes Counteroffer to Kansas’ Sports Funding Proposal
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — In a strategic move to keep the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals in Missouri, the state’s House of Representatives approved a key amendment to Senate Bill 80 on Tuesday, known as the Show-Me Sports Investment Act. This legislation allows any Major League Baseball (MLB) or National Football League (NFL) team to apply for tax credits for projects exceeding $500 million that facilitate the development or enhancement of athletic and entertainment facilities.
The funding model redirects various tax revenues generated at the facilities back to the teams to assist with bond repayments or project costs. Supporters, including Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas, believe the legislation is vital for retaining the city’s beloved teams, emphasizing their cultural importance. “These teams are vital parts of Kansas City’s culture, and their loss would be a blow to the local psyche and economy," stated House Minority Leader Ashley Aune.
Despite the bill passing with a 103-43 vote in the House, concerns were raised about the last-minute nature of the proposal and its implications for other state funding priorities. Critics argued that the considerable financial support for billionaire franchises should not overshadow essential state projects facing budgetary constraints. Moreover, some expressed skepticism about the long-term viability of public funding for sports facilities, as it could detract from other forms of entertainment revenue.
This move comes as Kansas has aggressively negotiated its own plans for stadium financing, having passed a law to cover up to 70% of new stadium costs last year. Missouri lawmakers now must navigate the Senate with the amended bill, which also features safeguards to reclaim tax credits if a team departs during the agreement period. The legislation presents a potential funding avenue for a new Royals stadium and further renovations at Arrowhead Stadium, offering a pivotal opportunity for Kansas City’s future.
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