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Details Of New Vikings Stadium Bill Released

By Pat Kessler, WCCO-TV

ST. PAUL (WCCO/AP) -- For the first time, details have been released on the new Minnesota Vikings stadium bill, which will be introduced at the Capitol next week.

Two Minnesota lawmakers, Sen. Julie Rosen of Fairmont and Rep. Morrie Lanning of Moorhead, sent the letter of the stadium details to the Minnesota legislature Thursday night.

The Republicans say in the letter that a bill is secondary to state budget difficulties, but still urgent with the Vikings' Metrodome 30-year lease ending and that building's roof collapsed.

There is still no specific site for the stadium, but the letter says whatever stadium is built must include a roof.

The bill as introduced has the following major positions:

• The state would create revenues sufficient to cover $250 million to $300 million in bonds, which would be sold by local governments -- or the Metropolitan Council.

• Local governments can bid for a new stadium, and cities or counties can raise sales taxes by 0.5 percent.

• The Vikings are required to make up the remainder, including cost overruns.

In addition, the State of Minnesota would pay for its share with stadium naming rights, a sports memorabilia tax and a pro football player income tax surcharge

A spokesman for the Vikings told WCCO-TV "the bill provides a workable framework to negotiate a deal." He said the team has some concerns, but is "appreciative of state leaders and their work to move it forward."

If the current labor conflict is not resolved, however, the bill details specify that the lease will not be signed and construction will not start.

For the entire letter, click here.

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