Overview
- Gov. Mike Braun signed SB-27 creating the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority and authorizing tools such as a 12% ticket tax, a 5% Lake County hotel tax, a 1% food-and-beverage tax in Lake and Porter counties, bond financing, and capture of new property taxes.
- Illinois’ megaprojects bill (HB 910) advanced from the House Revenue and Finance Committee on a 13–7 vote, offering long-term property tax certainty for large developments at Arlington Park, but the full House will not consider it until mid-March.
- The Bears said they are continuing due diligence and engagement with officials in both states and have not selected a stadium site.
- Opposition in Illinois argues the megaprojects plan could shift tax burdens to homeowners and small businesses, and residents in both states voiced concerns about local costs and priorities.
- Chicago lawmakers are pressing for concessions and community benefits if the team departs the city, while a stadium consultant noted any early exit from Soldier Field would require a payment currently estimated around $90 million that declines over time.