SAN ANTONIO, TX – Congressman Tony Gonzales (TX-23) introduced the Strengthening Public Undertaking for Retaining Sports (SPURS) Act to discourage the relocation of the San Antonio Spurs to Austin, Texas.

“For years, the Spurs have been a critical part of San Antonio’s identity,” said Congressman Gonzales. “From boosting the local economy to spearheading philanthropic efforts, the impact of the Spurs goes beyond the court. That’s why I am proud to introduce this legislation not just for San Antonio, but as a model for other cities across America.”

Specifically, this legislation would implement:

• Relocation Notice Requirements: Team owners must give written notification via certified mail one year before relocation.
• Requirement for Reimbursement: If an owner relocates a professional sports team, they must reimburse the State and local government for financial assistance or incentives provided to them – including special tax treatment and financing of an arena. 
• Private Right of Action by Local Government: Local governments can sue teams to recover financial damages for relocating.

Read the full text of the bill here.