Panthers owner asks state to help upgrade stadium

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) - Carolina Panthers' owner Jerry Richardson is asking state lawmakers to help finance an upgrade for Bank of America Stadium.

Richardson told lawmakers in Raleigh on Wednesday that he would like $62 million in state aid along with state approval for $144 million in higher local taxes.

Richardson and team President Danny Morrison were at the meeting with Charlotte Deputy City Manager Ron Kimble, who outlined the plan.

Richardson insisted he has no plans to move the team and says he's offended that anyone would suggest he's made that threat.

Richardson says he's turned down two buyers. But he did tell the lawmakers he plans to sell the team before he dies because of the tax implications.

Morrison has said the master plan calls for between $261 million and $297 million in upgrades to the 16-year-old stadium in Charlotte.