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Indiana Senate Panel Advances Stadium Authority Bill to Court the Bears

The plan requires a 35-year lease and outlines bond- and tax-backed financing for a potential Northwest Indiana stadium.

This illustration released by the City of Gary depicts the proposed Chicago Bears stadium and promenade and entertainment district. (Illustration provided by the City of Gary)
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Overview

  • The Senate Appropriations Committee voted 12-0 to move Senate Bill 27 to the full Senate for consideration.
  • An amendment removing stated participation goals for minority- and women-owned firms passed 8-4 along party lines, drawing objections from Northwest Indiana Democrats.
  • The framework establishes a 35-year NFL lease with a $1 purchase option after the term, uses long-term bonds (reported at 40 years), and allows lease payments from local excise, food-and-beverage, and innkeeper taxes.
  • The Bears called the legislation a “significant milestone,” and Gov. Mike Braun has publicly backed efforts to bring the team to Indiana.
  • Gary officials identified three candidate sites—West End near Hard Rock Casino, Buffington Harbor, and Miller Beach—while Bears leadership recently toured Indiana locations with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, with reports noting potential league financing subject to owners’ approval.