The Kansas Legislature has taken a significant step towards attracting the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals to the state by voting to create special tax incentives for major sports teams to build stadiums in Kansas. Governor Laura Kelly praised the bipartisan initiative as a way to drive economic growth and potentially turn Kansas into a professional sports powerhouse. The bill, which now awaits the governor’s signature, would allow investors to purchase bonds to help fund the construction of stadiums and practice facilities for the two teams.
Despite criticism from both sides of the aisle about the rushed nature of the decision and the lack of transparency, many lawmakers supported the bill, citing their fond memories of cheering for the Chiefs and Royals. The bill also includes provisions to keep negotiations and agreements with sports franchises confidential to prevent other states from outbidding Kansas.
The move has reignited the “economic border war” between Kansas and Missouri, with Missouri officials expressing disappointment over the competition for sports teams. While Kansas lawmakers convened in a special session initially to discuss tax relief packages, the focus shifted to the STAR Bonds bill, which aims to secure the Chiefs and Royals for the state.
Mayor Quinton Lucas of Kansas City, Missouri, expressed regret over the vote, stating that it reignites the incentives border war between the two states. The debate over bringing the sports teams to Kansas has been ongoing for months, with the potential for significant economic impact and increased tourism.
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