In a bold move to attract the Kansas City Chiefs and the Kansas City Royals, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly has signed legislation that will assist in funding new stadiums for the professional sports teams if they decide to relocate from Missouri, according to ESPN.

The Chiefs, who have expressed their intention to remain at Arrowhead Stadium, are currently in the process of extending their lease and renovating their facilities to ensure the franchise remains in Missouri for several decades. However, Kansas has now positioned itself as a potential new home for the team.

Earlier this week, Kansas lawmakers approved a House bill that would modify specific criteria for STAR (sales tax and revenue) bonds qualification, aiming to provide financing for the development of major commercial, entertainment, and tourism projects, as reported by the Associated Press. The bill now awaits approval from the Kansas Senate.

The legislation seeks to lure the Chiefs and the Royals across state lines by stipulating that any new stadium development must include a complex with a seating capacity of over 30,000 and at least a $1 billion investment. The Kansas City Royals' plans for a new MLB stadium could also be enticed by this proposal.

In April, voters in Jackson County, Missouri, rejected a sales tax measure that would have funded significant renovations for Arrowhead Stadium as well as a new downtown ballpark for the Royals. This setback has prompted the Chiefs to explore new options, and Kansas' lack of a requirement for a stadium sales tax vote is an advantage they are considering.

Chiefs CEO Clark Hunt expressed a sense of urgency in finding a resolution, stating, "Time is short for us at this point. So, we need to see what other options are out there for us." While Hunt acknowledges the historical significance of GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium to the franchise and their fanbase, he also recognizes the potential benefits of a new stadium.

The new legislation opens doors for the Chiefs, providing them with various possibilities for a new stadium. Hunt remains open to the idea of staying at Arrowhead Stadium, but the development of a new stadium gains traction. Moreover, the decision to build an open-air stadium or a dome stadium is still under consideration.

As Kansas continues to explore opportunities and offer financial incentives, the fate of the Chiefs and the Royals remains uncertain. The potential relocation of these beloved teams would undoubtedly impact both states, leaving fans anxiously awaiting further updates.

In the coming months, the Kansas City Chiefs and the Kansas City Royals must weigh their options carefully, considering the financial support and facilities available to them both in Missouri and across the state line. Only time will tell whether Kansas manages to successfully lure these renowned sports teams to its territory.