Missouri lawmakers reconvened in Jefferson City on Monday for a special legislative session that could significantly impact the futures of two beloved franchises: the Kansas City Chiefs and the St. Louis Cardinals. With the clock ticking, this session is all about tightening the grip on these teams and ensuring they remain in Missouri.
At the center of the discussion is Missouri Senate Bill 3, a key piece of legislation introduced to address these pressing issues. The bill includes vital provisions outlined by Governor Mike Kehoe, particularly the creation of a tax incentive package aimed at keeping the Chiefs and Royals firmly on Missouri soil.
This initiative isn’t just a formality; it’s a strategic response to the competitive landscape shaped by Kansas’ STAR bond program. That program has been successfully drawing professional sports teams across state lines, and with those Kansas incentives set to expire at the end of June, the timing of Missouri’s proposal couldn’t be more crucial.
Under the proposed measure, any stadium project would need to have a hefty price tag—at least $500 million—and must be affiliated with a Major League Baseball or NFL franchise. Missouri is prepared to step up, potentially committing up to 50% of the total project cost.
This ambitious plan reflects a strong commitment to maintaining a vibrant sports culture within the state, ensuring fans can keep cheering for their teams right at home. As these discussions unfold, the stakes couldn’t be higher, and the outcome could reshape the future for professional sports in Missouri.
