by Jonathan Eberle | Jun 27, 2025 | Economy, News
By Jonathan Eberle |
A new bill aimed at securing the long-term future of Chase Field and keeping the Arizona Diamondbacks in downtown Phoenix is poised to become law, following bipartisan passage through the state legislature and encouraging signals from Governor Katie Hobbs.
House Bill 2704, sponsored by Representative Jeff Weninger (R-LD13), offers a funding solution for needed repairs and renovations at the publicly owned stadium without raising taxes. The plan allows state sales and income tax revenues already generated by the team and its events to be redirected for stadium upkeep.
“This is a smart, responsible solution that keeps the Diamondbacks where they belong—at Chase Field in the heart of our capital city,” said Rep. Weninger, who chairs the House Commerce Committee. “The costs will be covered by revenue generated through team activity, not by pulling from the pockets of Arizonans who never set foot in the stadium. We’re protecting jobs, preserving economic impact, and keeping our beloved World Champion Major League Baseball team in Phoenix—all without new taxes.”
Under the bill, the Arizona Diamondbacks have also pledged at least $250 million toward future improvements at Chase Field, adding to more than $200 million the team has already spent—despite not owning the venue.
With the team’s lease set to expire in 2027, lawmakers and stakeholders had faced mounting pressure to develop a long-term plan that would keep the Diamondbacks in Arizona. Supporters of HB2704 argue the bill strikes a balance between fiscal responsibility and economic investment by keeping tax dollars generated by the stadium circulating locally.
Derrick Hall, President and CEO of the Diamondbacks, praised the legislative effort. “I want to thank Representative Weninger, all of the supportive lawmakers, and Governor Hobbs for the leadership with HB2704,” Hall said. “The voting results and bipartisan enthusiasm clearly showed the need for funding for this economically generating public asset.”
Chase Field, which opened in 1998 and has hosted over 55 million fans, plays a significant role in downtown Phoenix’s economy. Lawmakers say the legislation ensures the stadium remains a viable and modern venue well into the future—without tapping into the general fund or creating new financial burdens for Arizona residents.
Governor Hobbs has expressed public support for the measure, and her signature is expected in the coming days. Once signed, the bill will take effect and begin shaping the next chapter for both the team and the stadium.
Jonathan Eberle is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
by Daniel Stefanski | Feb 2, 2025 | Economy, News
By Daniel Stefanski |
An Arizona lawmaker has introduced a bill to solve the murky funding situation with the stadium of the hometown professional baseball franchise.
Last week, State Representative Jeff Weninger filed HB 2704 to “create a dedicated funding source needed to maintain Chase Field and keep it a world class facility for baseball and other events.” The proposal comes as the stadium lease for the Arizona Diamondbacks is set to run its course in 2027.
In a statement accompanying his press release, Weninger, the Chairman of the House Commerce Committee, said, “The Arizona Diamondbacks are an indispensable part of our state’s identify and economy. I’m proud to sponsor HB 2704, which provides a dedicated funding solution to renovate Chase Field and ensure the Diamondbacks remain right here in Arizona where they belong. With the departure of the Coyotes last year, it is more important than ever to take proactive steps to protect the future of our teams and the venues that make them possible.”
Representative Weninger added, “The Arizona Diamondbacks are a pillar of our community, and Chase Field has been a cornerstone of Arizona’s sports and entertainment scene for decades, welcoming millions of fans and creating unforgettable memories. That’s why there’s widespread interest in finding a sustainable solution. HB 2704 is a crucial step toward preserving Chase Field and ensuring it continues to be a world-class venue for generations to come.”
According to the information provided by Weninger’s release, HB 2704 “would recapture sales and income taxes associated with Chase Field and the Arizona Diamondbacks and direct them to a fund dedicated to repairing and maintaining the ballpark. The concept mirrors the Arizona Sports and Tourism Authority, which is responsible for the maintenance and funding of State Farm Stadium – the west valley home of the Arizona Cardinals. The Diamondbacks would also provide most funds necessary for the repairs required for the continued upkeep of their stadium.
The President, CEO, and General Partner of the Arizona Diamondbacks, Derrick Hall, also released a statement to endorse Weninger’s bill and encourage its passage through the Arizona Legislature. He wrote, “We are thrilled with all the momentum and positivity surrounding this legislation. We greatly appreciate the hard work and commitment from all who are delivering this public-private partnership to save baseball at Chase Field. Our ballpark has provided memories to fans and their families for over 27 years, and we will now reestablish and maintain it as one of the premier venues in the game with this funding, and the hundreds of millions the team is committed to investing. This solution avoids any new taxes and demonstrates civic pride for a franchise that cherishes its role in creating jobs, impacting the economy, bettering the community, and providing an exciting product.”
Daniel Stefanski is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
