WASHINGTON — There is a whole lot that would have to happen to return the Washington Commanders to RFK Stadium, or in a new stadium on the same site in D.C. But, a vote on Wednesday in the House of Representatives is the key to moving the whole process forward.
Sharon Nichols, spokesperson for Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), tells WUSA9 that there is a scheduled late afternoon vote on a bill Wednesday that would give the District control of the RFK site. Currently, it's the federal government that controls the land.
The bill sets up a 99-year lease between the federal government and D.C., giving the city the power to develop the site and operate a sports stadium.
The good news is if you want to see the Commanders back in D.C., unlike a lot of other things in Congress, there is wide bipartisan support for this bill. The House Oversight Committee approved the bill in September with a 31-9 vote.
The only reservations came from some members who wanted an amendment added, which would prohibit D.C. from using taxpayer money to finance a stadium project.
Two Maryland members voted for that amendment, including Rep. Jamie Raskin.
"I oppose the government's spending tax dollars on stadiums generally," Raskin said. "As a form of corporate welfare. And it's a difficult debate because people love the home team."
Maryland's team of congressmen want the Commanders to stay in Prince George's County at FedEx Field.
If approved, the bill will require Senate approval and then President Biden's signature to become law.
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