Bill would require the GAO to evaluate the social, economic and historic contributions of Minor League Baseball to American culture
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Fred Keller (R-PA) on Wednesday voted to support H.R. 6020—legislation that requires the Government Accounting Office to evaluate the costs of Major League Baseball’s plan to eliminate 42 Minor League Baseball teams, including the State College Spikes and the Williamsport Crosscutters—as the legislation passed the House Oversight and Reform Committee.
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In speaking on the legislation in the House Oversight and Reform Committee Wednesday, Congressman Keller said:
“Baseball is not only America’s pastime, but it is emblematic of the American dream. For decades, Minor League Baseball has been the conduit through which players hone their skills, test their merits, and pursue their dream of one day playing Major League Baseball.
“Pennsylvania’s 12th Congressional District is fortunate to be home to two minor league teams: the State College Spikes and the Williamsport Crosscutters. These franchises have been great community partners, providing our region with affordable entertainment while contributing to our local economies.
“We all must work in a way that ensures the continued viability of these teams and the family-friendly entertainment they provide. Additionally, I believe H.R. 6020 is an important step as we continue to fight for teams like the Spikes, the Crosscutters, and the preservation of Minor League Baseball across America.”
Given the significance of the Spikes and Crosscutters to communities across Pennsylvania’s 12th Congressional District, Congressman Keller became a founding member of the bipartisan Save Minor League Baseball Task Force and an original co-sponsor of a separate resolution that expresses the sense of Congress that Major League Baseball should maintain the current minor league structure rather than proceed with its plan to eliminate 42 minor league clubs.
