FINAL BILL REPORT

SB 5955

                                   C 32 L 87

BYSenators McDermott, Talmadge, Fleming, Warnke, Rinehart, Moore, Bender and Garrett

Authorizing city, county, and state ownership of professional sports franchises.

Senate Committee on Commerce & Labor

House Committe on Trade & Economic Development

SYNOPSIS AS ENACTED

BACKGROUND:

A professional sports franchise draws many visitors to the area where it is located.  In addition, it is a factor that some businesses consider when deciding where to locate a facility.  Some professional sports franchises have moved their locations in recent years.  These moves have resulted in a loss of income as well as prestige to the former host areas.

There is no existing authority for a city, code city, or county to own and operate a professional sports franchise.

SUMMARY:

Any city, code city, or county may own and operate an existing professional sports franchise, either individually or collectively, when the owners of such a franchise announce their intention to sell or move a franchise.

If a city, code city, or county purchases a professional sports franchise, then a public corporation must be created to manage and operate the franchise.  The public corporation would have the same powers as other public corporations created by cities and counties.  These powers include the right to sue and be sued, to enter into contracts, and own real and personal property.  Such powers do not include the right of eminent domain, the power to levy taxes, or the power to levy special assessments.

VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:

      Senate    30    19

      House 60  36

EFFECTIVE:April 10, 1987