On Wednesday, state Rep. Jeff Weninger introduced a bill to modernize Chase Field without taxpayer money.
House Bill 2704 proposes to reuse sales and income taxes associated with the ball park and Diamondbacks. Weninger is chairman of the House of Commerce Committee.
The bill directs the money to a fund to repair and maintain Chase Field, instead of increasing county or state taxes. The bill is modeled after the Arizona Sports and Tourism Authority, which funds State Farm Stadium.
Weninger said the Diamondbacks are an integral part of the state’s identity and he is committed to protecting the future of Arizona sports teams. The Diamondbacks current lease ends in 2027.
Weninger added he is confident the measure will provide a dedicated funding solution for Chase Field and ensure the Diamondbacks stay in Arizona for the foreseeable future.
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