‘Stop the Stadium Squeeze’ Bill Aims to Limit Concession Prices in Wisconsin

MADISON, Wis. (Civic Media) – Peanuts and Cracker Jack might be a bit cheaper if two Wisconsin lawmakers get their way.

State Sens. Sarah Keyeski of Lodi and Brad Pfaff of Onalaska, both Democrats, introduced a bill Wednesday aimed at capping prices on stadium concessions. The proposal, called “Stop the Stadium Squeeze,” would limit publicly supported stadiums to charging no more than 20% above the cost of food and beverages they sell.

The bill would apply to venues with at least 3,000 seats that receive state or local financial support, like grants, payments or tax incentives. That means major Wisconsin facilities like Fiserv Forum, American Family Field and Camp Randall Stadium would be covered.

Keyeski said families shouldn’t have to “pay an arm and a leg for concession snacks” to enjoy time at the ballpark or a concert. Pfaff said the goal is to keep “responsible guardrails” on venues that benefit from public tax dollars and to help families avoid “sticker shock” at the snack stand.

The measure is in its early stages and could face a long path before moving forward. Supporters say it targets fairness for fans who already help fund many of the state’s largest stadiums.