National Basketball Association

Seattle may tax athletes to build arena

Published Oct. 1, 2011 1:00 a.m. ET

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A plan to bring pro basketball and hockey to Seattle advanced Friday following a report that a bill could be considered by the state legislature in January.

Rep. Mike Hope has drafted legislation that will fund a new arena he says could lure NBA and NHL franchises to the city, KING-TV reported. Seattle lost its basketball franchise to Oklahoma City after the 2007-08 season.

The proposal would tax pro athletes in the NBA, NFL and MLB based on the percentage of their games that are played in Seattle, a measure already in place in several other cities and states.

Hope projected it could generate $140 million towards a new sports arena.

Hope is optimistic the bill will gain bi-partisan support once he introduces it in January when the legislature returns to work.

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