Missouri Senate Passes Landmark Legislation for Stadiums and Storm Relief
JEFFERSON CITY, MO — On Thursday, the Missouri Senate approved a significant piece of legislation aimed at providing crucial funding for new stadiums for the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals while also allocating $100 million for storm recovery specifically for St. Louis.
The storm relief bill, passed with a 23-10 vote, initially proposed $25 million for the Missouri Housing Trust Fund, aimed at aiding various storm-affected regions. Following negotiations, the Senate added a substantial $100 million earmarked for St. Louis to address urgent needs stemming from damage due to recent tornadoes. Senator Karla May expressed her relief at securing this vital funding, emphasizing the importance of immediate support while awaiting federal disaster declarations from President Trump.
In contrast, Senator Brian Williams labeled the original funding as “insulting” and voiced pride in enhancing the aid amount, addressing the pressing needs of residents lacking eligibility for tax incentives. Critics, such as Sen. Mike Moon, urged affected individuals to take personal responsibility for insurance coverage.
Concurrently, senators passed a stadium funding measure with bipartisan support (19-13), which will enable state assistance in financing new stadiums, with a provision to cover annual bond payments equivalent to taxes generated by the teams. Although local investment is required, the funding aims to respond to competitive offers from Kansas legislators.
As part of the same legislative package, funding was also allocated for various statewide projects, including upgrades to the Missouri State Fair and support for a mental health hospital in Kansas City.
Senate Minority Leader Doug Beck commended the overall achievements of the session, highlighting the balance between storm relief, funding for educational initiatives, and local support for stadium projects as pivotal successes. The legislation now moves to the House for further consideration.
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