If you haven’t heard by now, NFL Indianapolis Colts owners Jim Irsay was arrest last week for suspicion of driving under the influence and drug possession. Irsay has now checked himself into a treatment facility to deal with his personal issues. What I find amazing about this whole ordeal is the firestorm that erupted of people defending Irsay saying he’s a victim and needs treatment and support. But when the poor need support they are called welfare queens and expected to drop their pants and pee in a cup before they can get food stamps.
People are defending Irsay saying this is a private business and he doesn’t have to be held to a higher standard. I beg to differ, people seem to forget Jim Irsay built a brand new $720 million stadium for his team using public funds.
Indianapolis Colts Cost: $720 million – Percentage of public financing: 86%
Marion County hotel tax increases to 9 percent from 6 percent. This is on top of the 6 percent state sales tax. Marion County car rental tax doubled to 4 percent. The county doubled its food and beverage tax, to 2 percent. Neighboring suburban counties implemented 1 percent restaurant taxes. A surcharge on tickets was increased by 1 percent.
There is a whole list of team owners who used Public financing for their football stadiums. Jim Irsay got Indianapolis to use public funds for a new stadium after threatening he would move the Colts from Indianapolis to another city if Indianapolis didn’t foot the bill for his stadium. If he is getting public funds for a new stadium, shouldn’t he be drug tested? Drug testing recipients of welfare should include CEO’s & Executives now should include team owners since many of them are using public funds for their teams and stadiums. Line up NFL owners, if you receive public funds or want to ask for public funds to support your team you better be ready to drop you pants and piss in a cup.