theory behind specter's concern for NFL

Specter has introduced legislation numerous times over the years concerning the NFL. In several cases, attempting to limit teams' ability to leave town.

2006: Sen Specter "said he would sponsor legislation to eliminate the antitrust exemption that allows the National Football League to negotiate broadcast rights for all of its 32 teams."

2005: Warned that the Eagle's suspending of Terrell Owens "could be an antitrust violation."

1999: "Introduced a bill that would require teams to set aside 10 percent of television revenue and use the money to pay up to 50 percent of stadium construction costs."

1996: Publicly supported a bill "that calls for any professional sports franchise that relocates and breaks a stadium lease to retire outstanding municipal bonds and repay other public assistance that benefited the team."

1989: Urged the NFL and Players Associations to rid the sport of steroids.

1987: "Introduced legislation calling on the Justice Department to study the implications of new technology—specifically cable television and ''pay-per-view'' services—with regard to antitrust laws and the N.F.L.'s television practices."

1985: Proposed a bill to allow cities to sue in Federal court to prevent football team from abandoning them for more profitable locations.

1983: Sponsored legislation granting professional football leagues a limited antitrust exemption allowing them to adopt rules against the signing of underclassmen.

http://www.radaronline.com/exclusives/2008/02/specter-more-than-a-spectator.php