Major League Soccer Stadium Bill Introduced

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Prepare for more talk about stadiums at the Capitol.

Lawmakers introduced a bill Thursday that would grant tax breaks for the privately-financed $150 million Major League Soccer stadium in St. Paul. Minnesota United team officials are seeking an exemption from state property taxes and a tax break on construction materials. They also want a liquor license for the stadium.

Those requests pale in comparison to the more than $450 million in public money the Legislature pledged for the new Minnesota Vikings stadium in 2011.

St. Paul city officials have already approved nearly $20 million in infrastructure improvements around the Midway site. Minnesota United owner William McGuire has said construction may begin by June 1 if the Legislature ponies up.