Gov. Hobbs Poised to Approve Controversial Chase Field Bill Amidst Pushback

Gov. Katie Hobbs is poised to sign a significant measure regarding stadium renovations at Chase Field, despite the absence of a new budget this week. The proposed legislation aims to leverage sales tax and state income tax revenue for the upgrades.

The House passed House Bill 2704 with a vote of 35-20, although some members from the Freedom Caucus and certain Democrats expressed their dissent.

This bill is crucial for retaining the Diamondbacks in downtown Phoenix, as their current lease expires in 2027.

Some Democrats, initially skeptical, shifted their stance, recognizing the economic benefits tied to job creation. Rep. Mariana Sandoval highlighted this pivot, stating, “This morning, I wasn’t ready to vote yes on this bill. But because I’ve learned that unions have signed contracts to get work from this bill, I am going to support it.”

Phoenix’s city government, which previously opposed the bill, has now aligned with it. This shift followed an amendment that limits the city’s annual financial contribution to the stadium to $3.5 million, with adjustments for inflation capped at 3%.

Projected renovations are expected to utilize $500 million from sales tax revenue and income taxes paid by Diamondbacks players and staff over the next three decades. Rep. Cesar Aguilar emphasized the public funding aspect, stating, “I just want to remind the Arizona Diamondbacks that this is public money that should be used for public good.”

The legislation also mandates that tax dollars allocated to the Maricopa County Stadium District cannot be spent on luxury features like club seating or pool suites. Furthermore, the bill requires the team to contribute $250 million towards the stadium and holds them accountable for repairs if tax distributions are repealed before 2056.