Lawmaker Opposition Casts Doubt on New St. Louis Stadium

Missouri's legislative budget chairmen say they don't approve of a plan to use state money for a new St. Louis football stadium.

Gov. Jay Nixon has been working with St. Louis officials on a $998 million stadium plan aimed at keeping the Rams in St. Louis. Their plan includes an expected $135 million in state funds meant for bond payments.

But House Budget Chairman Tom Flanigan sent Nixon a letter Wednesday saying he won't allow any money to be budgeted for a new stadium unless the debt payments are authorized by the Legislature or voters.

Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Kurt Schaefer said he doesn't believe there is legislative support to spend taxpayer money on a stadium.

Lack of support from budget leaders could cast serious doubts on the project's finances.