'Charlotte was working with us': SC Senate votes to approve 'Panthers Bill'

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Panthers bill passed in the Senate Thursday after more than two hours of debate between lawmakers.

The proposal would give the team millions in tax breaks if it builds its headquarters and practice fields across the state border.

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The bill passed 27 to 15 in favor.

The Senate allowed the bill to pass a second reading on Wednesday with no objection. That usually means approval, but Thursday’s expected third and final reading brought more debate.

Some raised concerns that the economic benefit of the NFL team’s plans won't be as large as predicted, including Senator Dick Harpootlian who managed to put the brakes on the bill for nearly two months.

"The department of commerce and the governor did a good job of creating an image that was a good deal for South Carolina, and I don't think it is," Harpootlian said.

Several lawmakers questioned the $115 million incentive package, arguing that it wouldn't benefit the rest of the state, but Senator KE Fanning argued the state gives benefits to other companies.

"I'll be danged if we're gonna give incentives to Boeing and BMW and GiTI Tire, and all of sudden start our principled stands once it gets to York County," Fanning said.

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In a last minute effort to help the deal for the state, one senator said they shouldn't give any incentives unless the Panthers agree to play two home games in South Carolina. Another said the Panthers should pay for the proposed new interchange on Interstate 77.

Supporters of the bill helped to close the deal.

"Charlotte was working with us, North Carolina was working with us, respective of what the Panthers are to both states," Senator Gary Simrill said.

"Now, I'm excited to continue working with the Panthers, to get these guys up and running York County," Senator Wes Climer said.

Thursday was the final day of the legislative session to get the bill passed.

If the deal goes through, the new Panthers facility could be built just south of the Cherry Street exit off Interstate 77 in Rock Hill. New hotels, restaurants and shops could be built around it.

Owner David Tepper has said he’ll keep the team’s headquarters in Charlotte if the bill does not pass.

South Carolina Henry McMaster is expected to sign the bill by the end of the month.

Cox Media Group