Overview
- Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch was photographed with Bears chairman George McCaskey and president Kevin Warren at the playoff game as the House prepares to convene, spotlighting his control over a potential mega projects bill.
- Gov. J.B. Pritzker has softened his stance by signaling openness to state help with infrastructure for an Arlington Heights plan after previously rejecting stadium construction subsidies.
- Indiana lawmakers advanced a proposal for a state-owned stadium in northwest Indiana with the Bears paying rent and no local property taxes, with legislative action expected this session.
- Gary unveiled new renderings and three potential sites, while Hammond and a location near Wolf Lake remain in the mix as the region courts the team.
- The Bears continue to seek property-tax certainty through a PILOT framework and infrastructure commitments, surveying fans as Arlington Heights leaders press Springfield for enabling legislation and warn of unusually high tax bills without it.