JEFFERSON CITY — “The St. Louis Rams have proven to be an important fixture in our community over the past two decades. While economically significant, the benefits of having an NFL franchise in our city are not strictly financial, and I acknowledge and appreciate that the St. Louis Rams are a point of great pride for those in the 5th Senatorial District and throughout the entire St. Louis region.

I am optimistic that we will be able to reach an agreement to ensure the benefits of this relationship continue for years to come. My office and I will be closely involved in evaluating any proposals aimed at this objective. I anticipate many conversations on this topic over the next few months.

During these conversations, I will emphasize to all parties that this debate must be undertaken fairly, and democratically. I believe that the people of St. Louis should have the opportunity to vote on any proposal that would reduce revenue or expend tax-payer dollars toward this end. It is also important to concern ourselves with fiscal responsibility on the same terms in this debate as in other debates that may enjoy less visibility.

I will not support any proposal that amounts to a ‘blank check’ at the taxpayers’ expense.

The people of St. Louis deserve to have their voices heard on this issue, and I look forward to representing those voices as these conversations continue,” said Sen. Jamilah Nasheed (D-St. Louis).