Hailey
Kansas Lawmakers: Kansas may soon become the new home of the Kansas City Chiefs, one of the most popular teams in the NFL. On Monday, Kansas legislative leaders are set to meet to discuss a major financial deal that could bring the Chiefs out of Missouri and into Kansas.
If approved, this move could change sports history in the region and bring long-term economic growth to Kansas.
This decision is reaching a critical point, as a year-end deadline is approaching. The meeting could be one of the final steps needed to move the team across the state line.
What Kansas Lawmakers Are Meeting About
Kansas lawmakers will gather through the Legislative Coordinating Council, a group made up of top leaders from both political parties. During this meeting, they will review Sales Tax and Revenue (STAR) bond agreements related only to the Kansas City Chiefs.
What Are STAR Bonds?
Kansas Lawmakers: STAR bonds are special funding tools that allow the state to pay for large projects using future tax revenue from the same area.
- No new taxes are added for residents
- Bonds are paid using sales taxes from the new development
- Projects must be worth at least $1 billion
Kansas leaders believe this plan can attract the Chiefs without raising taxes, which has been a major focus of the discussions.
Where the New Stadium Could Be Built
If the deal moves forward, the Chiefs’ new domed stadium would likely be built near The Legends shopping area in Kansas City, Kansas. This area is already home to popular destinations like:
- Legends Outlets
- Hollywood Casino
- Kansas Speedway
- Sporting KC soccer stadium
The stadium would also include a large entertainment district, making it a year-round destination for fans, concerts, and major events like the Super Bowl.
Kansas vs Missouri: Financing Comparison
Here is a simple table showing how Kansas and Missouri are competing to keep or attract the Chiefs:
| Feature | Kansas Proposal | Missouri Proposal |
|---|---|---|
| Project Funding | Up to 70% | Up to 50% |
| Funding Tool | STAR Bonds | State Bonds + Tax Credits |
| Voter Approval Needed | No | Yes |
| Stadium Type | Domed Stadium | Renovation/New Build |
| Deadline Pressure | High | After voter rejection |
Missouri faced a setback in April 2024, when voters rejected a sales tax extension meant to help fund stadium projects. This opened the door for Kansas to step in aggressively.
What Leaders Are Saying
Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson has said he is fully committed to bringing the Chiefs to Kansas without increasing taxes. State officials have stayed quiet on specific details but confirmed the Chiefs are on the meeting agenda.
Kansas Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes also confirmed that the Chiefs will be discussed, but the Kansas City Royals will not be part of Monday’s talks.
Meanwhile, Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe says Missouri is still working hard to keep both teams and believes Missouri remains the best home for them.
Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas added that negotiations are ongoing and should not be discussed publicly.
Why Timing Matters So Much
The Chiefs’ current lease in Missouri runs until 2031. If Kansas finalizes a deal soon, construction could begin in time to open the new stadium by that year.
The Chiefs have already:
- Requested stadium design proposals
- Explored land near the Kansas Speedway
- Asked Kansas for more time to finalize financing
All signs suggest the move is a real and serious possibility.
A Look at the Chiefs’ History
The Chiefs have deep roots in Missouri:
- Moved from Dallas to Kansas City in 1963
- Played at Municipal Stadium first
- Moved to Arrowhead Stadium in 1971
- Arrowhead became GEHA Field in 2021
Despite this history, modern needs like a domed stadium and expanded entertainment options are driving the current talks.
The upcoming Kansas lawmakers meeting could mark a historic turning point for the Kansas City Chiefs and the entire region. With Kansas offering stronger financial support through STAR bonds and Missouri struggling after voter rejection, the balance may be shifting.
While nothing is final yet, the possibility of a domed stadium near The Legends shows Kansas is serious about winning this deal. If successful, this move could boost jobs, tourism, and economic growth for decades, making it one of the biggest sports decisions in Midwest history.