U.S. Sen. Proposes Bill Aimed At Stopping NFL Team Moves

Feinstein Proposes Legislation That Would Give NFL Limited Antitrust Exemption

U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), who “hopes to keep the 49ers from leaving” S.F, introduced a measure Thursday called the Football Fairness Act of 2007 that “would grant professional football a limited antitrust law exemption,” according to Hoge & Epstein of the S.F. CHRONICLE. Feinstein said the legislation “is designed to slow the movement of NFL teams and prevent communities from suffering the financial and intangible costs of these moves.” Feinstein noted that seven NFL teams have moved over the last 25 years, while only one team has moved in MLB, which has a similar antitrust exemption. NFL VP/PR Greg Aiello said the league has “long supported legislation that would continue the right of sports leagues to determine the markets where their franchises are located” (S.F. CHRONICLE, 1/12).

IMPACT ON 49ERS: In San Jose, Mike Swift notes the NFL defines a franchise’s move “as one of at least 75 miles from the team’s home city.” The proposed 49ers stadium in Santa Clara is 38 miles from their current location. 49ers VP/Communications Lisa Lang said, “What’s important to note is that Santa Clara is within the approved home territory of the San Francisco 49ers. ... It’s not considered moving the team, but it is considered moving the stadium, and under league rules, any move of a stadium requires league approval” (SAN JOSE MERCURY NEWS, 1/12).