South Carolina legislators clearing the path for Panthers move HQ to Rock Hill
Monday, May 20, 2019
COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- South Carolina legislators are expected to clear the final hurdle to giving the Carolina Panthers up to $120 million in tax breaks to move their practice fields and team headquarters out of North Carolina.
The Senate voted 23-16 on Monday to approve a compromise smoothing over small differences in the bill. A few hours later, the House passed the bill 88-18. Gov. Henry McMaster is expected to quickly sign it into law.
The bill exempts the Panthers from paying state income taxes for
players, coaches and other employees for 15 years as long as they use the money to build their new complex near Rock Hill.
Opponents say the state shouldn't help a billionaire NFL owner.
The team would continue to play games in Charlotte, North Carolina.