Virginia drops plans for $2 billion arena deal to lure Washington sports teams after opposition
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Virginia lawmakers have removed language from the state budget bill that would have enabled a $2 billion deal to lure the NBA's Wizards and NHL's Capitals from Washington, D.C. to Alexandria.
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Gov. Youngkin still believes the arena deal has merit and is asking lawmakers to reconsider including it in the budget. Democrats remain opposed.
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The budget bill was the last way to pass legislation needed for the arena deal. Youngkin could still pursue amendments or call a special session.
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The proposed deal involves public financing to build a new arena, practice facility, and offices for the teams in Alexandria near their current arena in D.C.
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Democratic Sen. Louise Lucas blocked the arena deal over concerns about putting taxpayer money behind a "billionaire's" project, referring to the teams' owner.