Governor Hobbs Signs Stadium Funding Bill for Diamondbacks, Ready For Decades More Of Diamondback Spirit

Governor Katie Hobbs approved legislation Wednesday that will redirect certain state tax revenues to support the Arizona Diamondbacks' home stadium, Chase Field, in a ceremonial signing held at the field.

The governor signed House Bill 2704 at the stadium while players practiced on the field before Wednesday's game. Diamondbacks leadership and the bill's sponsor, Representative Jeff Weninger, attended the ceremony.

The new law establishes a funding mechanism that provides specific tax collections to the Maricopa County Stadium District, which owns and operates Chase Field. Arizona Sports reported that, beginning in late 2025 and extending through 2026, different types of tax revenue will flow to the district:

• Sales taxes from retail businesses, restaurants, and concessions at the stadium
• Admission taxes from ticket sales
• Income taxes paid by professional baseball players and the team organization
• Construction-related taxes for stadium improvements

Revenue Impact

The fact sheet informed the budget that the legislation will reduce state general fund revenue by approximately $9.2 million annually starting in fiscal year 2027. Local governments will see revenue decreases of about $5.8 million per year, creating a combined annual impact of $15 million in redirected tax collections.

The legislation includes provisions designed to keep the Diamondbacks in Arizona long-term. If the team leaves Chase Field before 2055, the tax redirections will stop. 

The law also establishes financial penalties if the organization departs before 2035, 2045, or 2050.

Team executives indicated they envision lease agreements lasting at least 30 years, matching the bill's funding timeline.

Planned Improvements

Stadium officials outlined priority renovation projects focusing on infrastructure needs. Critical systems requiring attention include heating and air conditioning, plumbing, structural concrete repairs, and the retractable roof mechanism.

As we previously reported, the team has implemented temporary solutions for roof operations but acknowledges the need for permanent fixes. Visible upgrades will include new video display systems and digital signage throughout the facility.

Stadium leadership plans to work with consulting firm JLL and architectural teams to develop comprehensive renovation designs, starting fresh rather than using previous conceptual plans.

“We're preserving a community landmark, boosting our economy, and ensuring more unforgettable moments for years to come.” Governor Hobbs emphasized.