FILE - In this July 10, 2018 file photo, New Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper answers a question during a news conference at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, N.C. The South Carolina Senate appears to be preparing for a key vote on whether to give the Carolina Panthers tax breaks and incentives to move their practice fields out of South Carolina. State Sen. Dick Harpootlian removed his objection on the bill Tuesday, May 7, 2019, so it could come to a vote. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton, File)
The Associated Press
COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) - South Carolina legislators are expected to clear the final hurdle to giving the Carolina Panthers up to $120 million in tax breaks to move their practice fields and team headquarters out of North Carolina.
The Senate voted 23-16 on Monday to approve a compromise smoothing over small differences in the bill. A few hours later, the House passed the bill 88-18. Gov. Henry McMaster is expected to quickly sign it into law.
The bill exempts the Panthers from paying state income taxes for players, coaches and other employees for 15 years as long as they use the money to build their new complex near Rock Hill.
Opponents say the state shouldn't help a billionaire NFL owner.
The team would continue to play games in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Carolina Panthers head coach Ron Rivera, right, and general manager Marty Hurney, left, watch practice during the NFL football team's rookie camp in Charlotte, N.C., Friday, May 10, 2019. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton)
The Associated Press
Work continues on a domed practice field for the Carolina Panthers in the shadow of Bank of America stadium during the NFL football team's rookie camp Charlotte, N.C., Saturday, May 11, 2019. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton)
The Associated Press