Illinois Assembly Adjourns Without Advancing Chicago Bears Stadium Bill: Future Uncertain

The Illinois General Assembly concluded its spring session on Monday without advancing legislation that could facilitate the construction of a new stadium for the Chicago Bears.

In an effort to keep the Bears within the state, the Illinois Senate introduced a bill that could enable certain localities to negotiate agreements with the team.

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This proposed legislation is designed to empower municipalities with populations exceeding 70,000 to establish their own stadium authorities, potentially benefiting both Arlington Heights and Chicago. The bill would permit the Bears to privately fund a stadium, which would be municipally owned. Consequently, as a public facility, the property would be exempt from taxes.

On Monday, the Bears released a statement saying, “We will complete our assessment of both Arlington Heights and Hammond, sticking to the late spring or early summer timeline we previously outlined. We will share an update once a decision has been made.”

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The Bears said in a statement Monday, “”We will finalize our evaluation of both Arlington Heights and Hammond, and remain on the late spring/early summer timeline that we have previously communicated. We will provide an update when we have a decision to share.”

Illinois state leaders said time is of the essence as Hammond, Indiana is also pushing to give the Bears a new home.

“I believe the importance of tonight is to send the message to the business community, and to the Bears and to the NFL, That we’re serious, we want you as a customer, the state wants to be part of its future,” state Senator Seth Lewis, (R, 24th District) said.

The proposal would not impact any development surrounding a stadium, on which the Bears would still pay property taxes.