Bill Gives Evansville More Funds for Professional Sports is Now Goes To State Senate
STATEHOUSE (Feb. 21, 2025) – House Bill 1451, the bill that would increase the amount of money captured from the Evansville Professional Sports and Convention Development Area, supporting local sports tourism has now been folded into the state budget bill.
Based on Evansville’s population, the annual capture limit under current law is $1.17 million. The bill creates a 15-year plan for the PSCDA. It would increase the limit to $5 million for the first five years, then $6 million for the following five years, and up to $7 million for the last five years. It has the potential of keeping $90 million in revenue in the Evansville area.
The author of the bill, Tim O’Brien, explained that this does not create a new tax but rather draws on existing funds that would otherwise go to the state in revenue form. He also said that these funds allow Evansville to pave the way for future opportunities in Southwest Indiana.
He added this legislation would support future growth in Evansville and Southwest Indiana, including plans for Great Bend Park, a place for everyday enjoyment and extraordinary events.
House Bill 1001 passed the Ways and Means Committee before passing the full House of Representatives. It now moves to the Senate for further consideration.
For more information on HB 1001 and to track legislation, and watch committee hearings and session proceedings, visit iga.in.gov.
