WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) released the following statement today in response to an announcement by the National Football League (NFL) that it has voluntarily relinquished its status as a tax-exempt organization:

“The NFL’s decision to end its tax-exempt status is a touchdown for the American people,” Senator King said. “It’s common-sense that the league office of a successful multi-billion dollar sports organization should not enjoy the benefit of tax incentives – which come from the pockets of every day Americans – to boost their bottom lines. This is the right decision; it falls in line with several other professional sports organizations, and I’m pleased the NFL did it.”

Last Congress, Senator King cosponsored the PRO Sports Act, which would have amended the tax code to prohibit professional sports organizations with annual revenues of more than $10 million from enjoying the same tax-exempt, 501(c)(6) status as industry trade associations and public interest groups.

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