The Missouri House of Representatives has approved a landmark $1.5 billion stadium bill aimed at supporting the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals by providing tax incentives and funding to build or upgrade their stadiums. This legislation was passed on the final day of a special legislative session called by Governor Mike Kehoe.
The bill, known as the Show-Me Sports Investment Act, authorizes Missouri to issue bonds covering up to 50% of stadium construction or renovation costs. It also offers $50 million in tax credits to private investors for each new or upgraded facility, increases ticket sales tax credit caps in Jackson County, and extends existing tax credits until 2032.
Governor Kehoe is expected to sign the bill into law, signaling Missouri’s commitment to keeping both the Chiefs and Royals in Kansas City amid competing offers from neighboring Kansas. The Royals recently acquired a mortgage on property in Overland Park, Kansas, but have denied any plans to relocate.
Missouri House Speaker Jon Patterson expressed optimism, stating, “While this doesn’t guarantee the teams will stay, it makes a clear statement that Missouri values them and is prepared to invest in their future here.”
Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas praised the legislation, saying, “This bill ensures the Chiefs and Royals will remain in Missouri for years to come, supporting ongoing development and growth in downtown Kansas City.”
In addition to stadium funding, the Missouri House also approved disaster relief aid for St. Louis following recent tornadoes, a move that helped garner bipartisan support for the stadium package.
The passage of this bill marks a significant step toward securing the future of Missouri’s major league sports franchises and demonstrates strong legislative and community support for the teams and the region’s economic development.
