Vikings Stadium Bill Writers Mull Backup Financing
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- Minnesota lawmakers crafting a Vikings stadium bill are discussing whether and how to include a backup funding stream to a bar gambling plan behind an almost $400 million state contribution.
The hang-up is one reason why legislation for the nearly $1 billion football stadium won't become public earlier than Monday. That would be more than 10 days after city, state and team officials celebrated a handshake deal to build their treasured franchise a new home.
The difficulty turning a term sheet into actual legislation is but one challenge ahead for the Vikings stadium effort. The session clock is working against advocates: Lawmakers expect to adjourn no later than April 30. A gauntlet of time-consuming committee and floor votes stands between the bill and Gov. Mark Dayton's desk.
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