Senator promises Vikings stadium bill by late Jan.

Published 4:12 pm Wednesday, December 15, 2010

ST. PAUL — The sponsor of an expected Vikings stadium bill said she expects to unveil the legislation by late January.

Republican Sen. Julie Rosen of Fairmont said Wednesday that she is working with the team on a proposal.

She said it will address how to pay for a retractable roof and may include a $17 million-a-year sports memorabilia tax considered last year. Rosen said they are looking at other funding ideas but no state general fund dollars.

The Metrodome roof collapse last weekend has focused attention on the stadium issue.

Incoming Democratic Senate Minority Leader Tom Bakk said he will sign onto Rosen’s bill if Republican caucus leaders support it.

Incoming GOP Senate Majority Leader Amy Koch  said the deflated roof hasn’t changed their focus on jobs and the economy.