'Lightning officials want to rewrite current state law that gives professional teams an annual $2-million rebate in sales tax revenue. They want the new law to provide for an additional $2-million annually over 30 years .
'That amounts to $60 million in new aid for each team venue that meets certain qualifications.
'The money could only go to the sports facility, for improvements from new seating to playing surfaces.
'All nine major professional sports franchises in Florida could seek the benefit, from the Jacksonville Jaguars to the Florida Marlins and Orlando Magic.'
NOT SO FAST: There's language in the bill that may trouble a team owner with a history like Mr. Loria's....
'Sen. Mike Fasano, R-New Port Richey, is drafting the bill and points to provisions that require any franchise, should it leave Florida within 15 years, to agree to reimburse the state for future payments the venue would receive.'
SO JUST IN CASE: '...Sen. Rudy Garcia, R-Hialeah, has separate legislation to help the Marlins get a new ballpark.' (StPeteTimes)
DON'T-GET-YOUR-HOPES-UP-DATE: 'Still, pro-sports subsidies could be a tough sell in what is shaping up as a leaner-than-expected budget year.
'"That's a very good point, and you just don't know" how receptive lawmakers will be, Fasano said.' (OrlandoSentinel)
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