2436

LAWS OF MARYLAND

Ch. 413

CHAPTER 413

(House Bill 456)

AN ACT concerning

Special Advisory Commission on Professional Sports
and the Economy

FOR the purpose of establishing a Special Advisory Commission on
Professional Sports and the Economy; providing for the
membership, terms, officers, meetings, compensation, and
powers of the Commission; and generally relating to the
establishment of a Special Advisory Commission on
Professional Sports and the Economy.

BY adding to

Article 41 - Governor - Executive and Administrative
Departments

Section 551 through 557, inclusive, to be under the new
subtitle "54 Special Advisory Commission on
Professional Sports and the Economy"

Annotated Code of Maryland

(1982 Replacement Volume and 1983 Supplement)

Preamble

WHEREAS, There are presently 7 professional sports
franchises located in the State of Maryland; and

WHEREAS, Professional sports contribute millions of dollars
to the economy of this State, significantly affecting property
tax, income tax, and amusement and entertainment tax revenues,
while also directly and indirectly benefiting many businesses
located in Maryland; and

WHEREAS, Some metropolitan areas have estimated the total
economic effect of a single professional major league baseball
team at as much as $65 million annually; and

WHEREAS, Nationally, the effect of professional sports can
be measured in billions of dollars; and

WHEREAS, Professional sports in Maryland also bring
immeasurable pride and pleasure to their millions of fans and to
all of the citizens of this State; and

WHEREAS, It is in the interest of the State of Maryland to
encourage the retention, expansion, and location of professional
sports in this State; now, therefore,