Invites Major League Baseball to consider locating a franchise in the New Orleans area on a temporary basis if the team is unable to play games in its home stadium due to COVID-19 restrictions
The resolution suggests that temporarily hosting an MLB franchise would encourage necessary renovations to Zephyrs Stadium, a facility located conveniently near Louis Armstrong International Airport. This move could serve a dual purpose: facilitating immediate MLB activities while also setting the groundwork for the potential acquisition of a minor league team in the future. The economic implications for the community could be significant, offering jobs and stimulating local business through increased foot traffic and visibility.
House Resolution 36 urges Major League Baseball (MLB) to consider relocating a franchise temporarily to the New Orleans area. This request arises from the potential inability of some MLB teams to play in their home stadiums due to COVID-19 related restrictions imposed by various state and local governments. The resolution highlights the urgent need for alternative arrangements to ensure continuity in the league's operations while accommodating public health safety measures. By situating a team in New Orleans, the resolution aims to not only provide a playing venue but also enhance the local sports landscape during the pandemic.
The sentiment around HR36 appears supportive, as it is framed as a proactive measure to assist both the MLB and the local community amid unprecedented challenges. Proponents see this resolution as a strategic opportunity to revitalize interest in baseball in the New Orleans area while ensuring that teams can continue to play amid ongoing restrictions. There seems to be a shared belief among legislators that engaging with MLB during this unique time could yield long-term benefits for local sports fans and the economy.
While the resolution is primarily supportive, there could be underlying concerns regarding the implications of a temporary franchise, such as the financial commitments involved and the potential for reduced focus on local sports in favor of a temporary major league presence. Discussions around such resolutions often highlight the balance between immediate benefits and long-term sports program sustainability at the local level. The interaction between state-level support for MLB and local aspirations for community engagement in sports may also lead to differing opinions among stakeholders.