PORTLAND, Ore. — A major step toward bringing Major League Baseball to Portland moved forward Tuesday, as the Oregon House passed Senate Bill 110 — nicknamed the “jock tax” bill — with strong bipartisan support in a 46–6 vote. The bill, which cleared the Senate earlier this year, now goes to Governor Tina Kotek, who is expected to sign it into law.
The measure is designed to help fund a proposed $2 billion MLB stadium in Portland’s South Waterfront, at the former Zidell Yards site. Backers say the bill could generate up to $800 million by redirecting income taxes paid by professional athletes and their spouses while working in Oregon — without adding new taxes on everyday residents.
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“From the stadium design using Oregon’s cross-laminated timber to built-in labor protections for workers, this project is a grand slam for Oregon,” said Rep. Daniel Nguyen (D-Lake Oswego), who co-sponsored the bill and chairs the House Committee on Economic Development.
SB 110 updates a 2003 law that capped this athlete tax contribution at $150 million. The new bill raises that cap to $800 million, unlocking more funding for the proposed 32,000-seat stadium with a retractable roof — a venue intended for year-round use beyond just baseball games.
“This is a clean win,” said Sen. Mark Meek (D-Gladstone), chair of the Senate Finance and Revenue Committee. “It means jobs, development, and long-term investment for Oregon.”
The Portland Diamond Project, the group behind the MLB effort, applauded the move and credited lawmakers for backing a forward-thinking public-private partnership.
“This bill sends a clear message: Oregon is ready for Major League Baseball,” said PDP founder Craig Cheek.
The bill’s popularity stems from its economic benefits without burdening local taxpayers. Advocates argue an MLB team would boost statewide revenue, support small businesses, and reinvigorate tourism — especially important as Oregon continues to face business and safety challenges.
Even Rep. Christine Drazan (R-Canby), often critical of Portland leadership, voiced strong support:
“An MLB stadium could create the economic boom our state desperately needs.”
Will MLB Expansion Happen?
While the funding path is now clearer, an MLB team isn’t guaranteed. Commissioner Rob Manfred has said expansion cities won’t be chosen until 2029, and no new teams would begin play before 2031. Current hurdles include unresolved stadium issues for the Oakland Athletics (relocating to Las Vegas) and the Tampa Bay Rays.
Other contenders like Salt Lake City and Sacramento pose stiff competition. Salt Lake has already formed a strong ownership group, while Sacramento is currently hosting the A’s, giving the city a multi-year opportunity to prove its market.
The Portland Diamond Project has yet to name its proposed majority owner — a key MLB requirement.
Still, backers believe Tuesday’s House vote marks a turning point.
“Overwhelmingly passing SB 110 shows MLB that Oregon is all-in,” said Cheek. “No rest until opening day.”
