In the aftermath of Jackson County voters rejecting a sales tax that would have helped fund stadium projects for the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals, lawmakers in Kansas are working on a new plan to attract professional sports franchises from the NBA, NHL, NFL, or MLB. The proposal includes temporary changes to the STAR Bonds program to allow for two stadium projects with a minimum investment of $1 billion and stadiums seating at least 30,000 spectators. Practice facilities are also required for the teams.
Kansas Representative Sean Tarwater emphasized the importance of sending a positive message to the sports community after the rejection of the sales tax. The Chiefs CEO Clark Hunt has indicated that the team is exploring options outside of Jackson County, prompting Kansas lawmakers to push for a solution.
Lawmakers are working to finalize the details of the funding package at the Kansas Capitol in Topeka. Efforts are being made to secure funding for new stadiums that would benefit both the Chiefs and Royals, ensuring that Kansas remains an attractive destination for professional sports teams.