Indiana unanimously passes bill to lure Bears away from Chicago - ESPN

ESPN

by Courtney Cronin

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Chicago Bears' quest for a new home has taken a significant step forward with Indiana's unanimous approval of Senate Bill 27 (SB27), paving the way for the team to potentially build a state-of-the-art domed stadium in Hammond, Indiana. The amendment to SB27 creates the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority, granting it the power to issue bonds, acquire land, and finance construction. This move marks a major milestone in the Bears' efforts to leave Illinois and establish a new venue near Wolf Lake, which straddles the Illinois-Indiana border. The Bears have long sought legislative support to facilitate their stadium plans, which include a $2 billion investment in a 326-acre site in Arlington Heights, Illinois. However, the team faced challenges in securing public funding for essential infrastructure improvements, such as roads and sewers, leading them to explore alternative options in Indiana. The proposed stadium in Hammond is expected to serve as a regional destination, attracting fans from across Chicagoland and beyond. Governor Mike Braun celebrated the progress, emphasizing Indiana's pro-business environment and the potential economic boost the project could bring to the state. Meanwhile, Illinois lawmakers have paused their own efforts to pass similar legislation, which would have allowed the Bears to negotiate tax payments with local governing bodies. A spokesperson for Governor J.B. Pritzker expressed disappointment, stating that Illinois was prepared to move forward with its own proposal but acknowledged the Bears' decision to pursue opportunities in Indiana. The situation highlights the growing competition between states to attract major sports franchises and the significant financial stakes involved in such endeavors. For readers interested in sports, this development underscores the evolving dynamics of stadium relocation and public-private partnerships. The Bears' potential move to Indiana reflects a broader

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/19/2026