Missouri Enacts $1.5B Stadium Funding to Keep Teams

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has signed a legislative package authorizing the state to fund up to 50% of the construction or renovation costs for stadiums in an effort to keep the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals from relocating to Kansas. The bill follows the failure of a local sales tax extension earlier this year and allows for additional, unspecified support from local governments. Kansas has increased competitive pressure by offering to cover up to 70% of new stadium costs. Critics argue that the process has lacked transparency and question the use of substantial public funds for profitable sports franchises while other priorities remain unmet. Both teams have until June 30 to make relocation decisions, and neither has ruled out a move to Kansas. Economists continue to doubt the long-term economic benefits of public stadium subsidies, emphasizing the role of emotional and political motivations.