Saying it is an issue that should be addressed by the owners of the sports teams, state Rep. Keith McCall, D-Carbon, voted against a measure that would provide state funding for stadiums in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. The reality of the proposal, which offers state money for stadiums and also provides funds for economic development projects, is that it won't have a great impact on Carbon County. We may see some construction jobs arise, but no real long-term job opportunities. The legislation requires the state funding for stadiums to be returned in the form of tax revenues over a 30-year period.
Teams are responsible for the costs of any construction overruns.
Additionally, they must commit to stay in Pennsylvania for 30 years. Should a team decide to relocate, it must repay the state's investment. The House passed the bill. The Senate also is expected to approve it today.