US EditionIndiana Senate introduces bill to pay for new Chicago Bears stadium
- On Jan. 15, 2026, Indiana senators Ryan Mishler and Chris Garten introduced Senate Bill 27 to create a Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority, assigned to the Senate Appropriations Committee.
- Last month, Chicago Bears president and CFO Kevin Warren expanded the team's stadium search to the Chicagoland region after Illinois leaders said the project isn't a 2026 priority, prompting consideration of Hammond and Gary, northwest Indiana.
- The bill grants the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority powers to issue bonds only after a written NFL agreement with an at-least 35-year lease, overseen by a three-member board including the Office of Management and Budget director.
- Bears leaders hailed the legislation as a significant milestone and thanked Governor Mike Braun and Indiana lawmakers, while Braun highlighted the job and economic boost during his State of the State address.
- With the Jan. 26, 2026 committee deadline looming, SB 27 faces rapid movement while Arlington Heights still requires a little less than $900,000,000 in infrastructure improvements.
24 Articles
24 Articles
Indiana lawmakers introduce measure for potential Bears stadium relocation
Indiana lawmakers introduced a measure on Jan. 15, 2026, to establish the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority, which would have the authority to acquire land, finance improvements, and lease the land to the Chicago Bears.
Arlington Heights mayor warns Bears will go to Northwest Indiana without mega projects bill
Arlington Heights Mayor Jim Tinaglia warned Illinois state legislators the Chicago Bears might hop the state line to Northwest Indiana if they do not pass incentives.
Bears call Indiana stadium bill a 'significant milestone' toward possible move
INDIANAPOLIS The Chicago Bears are calling a bill introduced in the Indiana Statehouse a "significant milestone" toward possibly bringing the team to Indiana.That's according to a statement the Bears shared with Ian Rapoport Thursday night.Senate Bill 27 would create a "Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority" to acquire and finance what could be a new stadium for the Bears.It's a push Governor Mike Braun mentioned in his State of the State address …
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