JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — On Wednesday, Missouri lawmakers approved a substantial financial package totaling hundreds of millions of dollars, aiming to convince the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals to remain in Missouri while aiding the St. Louis area in recovering from a recent destructive tornado.
The legislative package is now headed to Governor Mike Kehoe, who had called the special session for a fast-track approval. It is anticipated that Kehoe will enact the measures into law.
Missouri’s legislative session brought together two distinct national issues: the trend of taxpayer-funded sports stadiums and the reevaluation of state responsibilities in disaster response, especially as the federal government’s aid programs are reevaluated.
Even before the tornado struck St. Louis on May 16, causing about $1.6 billion in damages, stadium subsidies were already a major talking point in Missouri. This natural disaster occurred just after the legislative regular session concluded, exacerbating the urgency for relief efforts.
Relief efforts had overwhelming support. During discussions, State Rep. Kimberly-Ann Collins emotionally recounted her experience as she watched a tornado devastate her home and neighborhood. Lacking home insurance, Collins spent nights in her car and depended on the generosity of others for food.
“It pains me deeply to see families and businesses, who have worked tirelessly, torn apart,” Collins expressed, highlighting the extent of the destruction.
Approved measures include $100 million in flexible aid for St. Louis and an additional $25 million for emergency housing assistance in any areas under presidential disaster declarations. Moreover, a $5,000 tax credit was approved to help cover insurance deductibles for storm-affected homeowners and renters—potentially costing the state up to $600 million, according to Budget Director Dan Haug.
The Chiefs and the Royals, currently located in Jackson County, Missouri, have leases expiring in January 2031. A recent sales tax extension meant to fund renovations for the Chiefs’ stadium and a new district for the Royals was rejected by voters.
This led Kansas lawmakers to propose bonds covering up to 70% of new stadium costs to attract these teams. The Royals have even shown interest by acquiring property in Kansas, yet they continue to consider Missouri sites. Kansas’s proposition will expire on June 30, urging Missouri to make a competitive offer.
Missouri lawmakers have sanctioned bonds for up to 50% of the costs for new or upgraded stadiums, alongside $50 million in tax credits per stadium and potential local government support. If the teams choose to stay, the Chiefs plan a $1.15 billion upgrade to Arrowhead Stadium.
The Chiefs stated that the decision marks a crucial advancement that allows them to weigh their options to stay in Missouri. Meanwhile, the Royals commented that the legislation is pivotal in their ongoing deliberations but did not commit to any site.
“We aim to prioritize our team, fans, partners, and the regional community in finding a future home for the Royals,” stated the team.
The St. Louis Cardinals may also benefit from the funding if they embark on a project costing at least $500 million.
While many economists argue that public funding for stadiums doesn’t provide a new revenue stream, supporters warn that Missouri could suffer substantial tax revenue losses if the Chiefs and Royals were to relocate to Kansas. Losing the Chiefs, winners of three Super Bowls in recent years, would particularly affect Missouri’s reputation.
“This is our chance to preserve a state icon,” remarked Rep. Jim Murphy, reflecting the bipartisan support from various state regions.
Nevertheless, the bill has faced opposition. Critics deem it a financial advantage for wealthy sports team owners. Concerns also emerged regarding a property tax relief amendment, which could contradict the state constitution by offering unequal tax relief across counties.
“This legislation is unconstitutional, financially unsound, and ethically questionable,” declared Rep. Bryant Wolfin.