Press Release: Major League Baseball Team Push Gains Legislative Support in Oregon
Portland, OR – A significant step towards establishing a Major League Baseball (MLB) team in Portland was marked by a recent proposal from the Oregon Legislature. Democratic State Senator Mark Meek introduced an amendment on Thursday that could dramatically increase state funding for a new stadium from $150 million to $800 million. This move highlights growing political backing for the Portland Diamond Project and its ambitions for a professional baseball franchise.
The proposed funding model employs a “jock tax,” which shifts the financial responsibility of the bond away from ordinary Oregonians. Instead, the tax would be levied on player salaries and team executives, enabling the repayment of the bond over a 30-year span. Craig Cheek, founder and president of the Portland Diamond Project, explained that the increased salaries of players since 2003 would help generate the necessary tax revenue to meet the new financial demands.
The amendment to Senate Bill 110 will undergo further scrutiny in a public hearing scheduled for next Monday, where they will discuss the details and implications of this funding proposal. Following the hearing, the Finance and Revenue Committee is expected to vote on the amendment during a work session the following Wednesday.
The introduction of this amendment symbolizes a renewed commitment from state lawmakers to bring big-league baseball to Oregon, further invigorating the local sports landscape. With community support and legislative backing, the dream of a Portland MLB team moves closer to reality.
Copyright 2025 KPTV-KPDX. All rights reserved.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
