Indiana, February 10, 2026
The Indiana Senate has passed Senate Bill 27, establishing the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority to facilitate construction of a new Chicago Bears stadium. The bill, approved 46-2, will allow land acquisition and bond issuance to finance the project. Governor Mike Braun supports the measure, highlighting potential economic benefits. The bill now moves to the Indiana House for further consideration, as the Bears explore relocation options amidst stalled negotiations in Illinois.
Indiana Advances Legislation to Attract Chicago Bears Stadium
Indianapolis, Indiana – The Indiana Senate has passed Senate Bill 27, a pivotal piece of legislation aimed at facilitating the construction of a new stadium for the Chicago Bears in northwest Indiana. The bill, approved with a 46-2 vote, establishes the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority, a public entity authorized to acquire land, issue bonds, and finance the construction of a professional football stadium.
Details of Senate Bill 27
Senate Bill 27 outlines the creation of the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority, which would have the power to:
- Acquire land for the stadium’s construction.
- Issue long-term bonds, with maturities of up to 40 years, to finance the project.
- Enter into long-term lease agreements with NFL teams, requiring a minimum lease term of 35 years.
The legislation specifies that the state would own the stadium, while an NFL franchise would lease the facility under a long-term agreement. Bond payments would primarily be made from lease rental payments, which could be funded through local tax revenues, including proceeds from local excise taxes, food and beverage taxes, and innkeeper’s taxes.
Support and Next Steps
Governor Mike Braun has expressed support for the measure, emphasizing its potential to boost Indiana’s economy and attract the Chicago Bears to the state. The bill now moves to the Indiana House for further consideration. House Speaker Todd Huston has indicated readiness to advance the legislation, stating that House Republicans are prepared to work closely with all stakeholders to move the bill forward.
Background Context
The Chicago Bears have been exploring options for a new stadium due to stalled negotiations in Illinois over a proposed development in Arlington Heights. In December 2025, the team expanded its search to include northwest Indiana, considering potential sites near Gary and Hammond. The Bears have also conducted surveys among season-ticket holders to gauge interest in a new stadium approximately 20 miles from Chicago.
The passage of Senate Bill 27 represents a significant step in Indiana’s efforts to attract the Chicago Bears, with potential implications for the state’s economy and sports landscape.
Key Features of Senate Bill 27
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Establishment of Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority | A public entity authorized to acquire land, issue bonds, and finance the construction of a professional football stadium in northwest Indiana. |
| Bond Issuance | Authority to issue long-term bonds (up to 40 years) to finance the stadium’s construction. |
| Lease Agreements | Ability to enter into long-term lease agreements with NFL teams, requiring a minimum lease term of 35 years. |
| Stadium Ownership | The state would own the stadium, while an NFL franchise would lease the facility under a long-term agreement. |
| Financing Mechanism | Bond payments primarily made from lease rental payments, which could be funded through local tax revenues, including excise taxes, food and beverage taxes, and innkeeper’s taxes. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Senate Bill 27?
Senate Bill 27 is legislation passed by the Indiana Senate that establishes the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority, a public entity authorized to acquire land, issue bonds, and finance the construction of a professional football stadium in northwest Indiana. The bill was approved with a 46-2 vote and now moves to the Indiana House for further consideration.
What does the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority do?
The Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority is a public entity created by Senate Bill 27 with the authority to acquire land, issue long-term bonds (up to 40 years), and finance the construction of a professional football stadium. It can enter into long-term lease agreements with NFL teams, requiring a minimum lease term of 35 years. The state would own the stadium, while an NFL franchise would lease the facility under a long-term agreement.
How will the stadium be financed?
The stadium’s construction would be financed through the issuance of long-term bonds by the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority. Bond payments would primarily be made from lease rental payments, which could be funded through local tax revenues, including proceeds from local excise taxes, food and beverage taxes, and innkeeper’s taxes. The bill does not specify which local taxes would be used or how much revenue would be pledged.
What is the current status of Senate Bill 27?
Senate Bill 27 has been passed by the Indiana Senate with a 46-2 vote and now moves to the Indiana House for further consideration. House Speaker Todd Huston has indicated support for the bill and expressed readiness to work closely with all stakeholders to advance the legislation.
Why is the Chicago Bears considering relocating to northwest Indiana?
The Chicago Bears have been exploring options for a new stadium due to stalled negotiations in Illinois over a proposed development in Arlington Heights. In December 2025, the team expanded its search to include northwest Indiana, considering potential sites near Gary and Hammond. The Bears have also conducted surveys among season-ticket holders to gauge interest in a new stadium approximately 20 miles from Chicago.
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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
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