State Lawmakers Weigh Incentives for Bears Relocation

Proposed legislation could worsen Illinois' property tax crisis, experts warn

Apr. 11, 2026 at 3:52pm

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A dimly lit, cinematic painting of an empty sports stadium or arena, with warm sunlight streaming in through the windows and deep shadows obscuring much of the structure. The scene has a melancholic, nostalgic mood, capturing the uncertainty surrounding the Bears' future in Illinois.As Illinois lawmakers weigh incentives to keep the Bears in the state, the looming shadow of the team's potential relocation casts a pall over the future of Chicago's sports landscape.Arlington Heights Today

As the Chicago Bears search for a new stadium location, state lawmakers are considering an incentive package that would offer property tax breaks for the team's potential move to Arlington Heights. However, critics argue that the proposed legislation, known as HB 910 House Amendment 1, could exacerbate Illinois' already high property tax burden by allowing taxing bodies to increase levies as if the project were paying normal rates, while the team would pay discounted taxes.

Why it matters

The Bears' potential relocation is a high-stakes decision for Illinois, as the team is a beloved sports franchise and a significant economic driver. However, the proposed incentive package has raised concerns that it could further strain the state's property tax crisis, with neighboring businesses, homeowners, and renters potentially facing higher taxes to make up for the team's discounted payments.

The details

The incentive package, HB 910 House Amendment 1, would offer property tax breaks for 'megaprojects' that have at least $500 million in eligible costs, including the property purchase. The project must be completed within 7 to 10 years, with a possible 5-year extension, and operated for at least 20 years. The tax incentive would last 23 to 40 years, and the megaproject's assessment would be frozen at the 'base year' value, before any improvements. However, for the purposes of issuing bonds and property tax extension calculations, the taxing body could use the current fair cash value of the property, allowing the levy to grow beyond the limited rate and shifting the burden to other taxpayers.

  • On April 7, state lawmakers returned to Springfield to consider the Bears' relocation plans.
  • On March 31, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said the Bears need to 'find a solution for a stadium' and that the deal needs to be done 'relatively soon'.
  • Arlington Heights Mayor Jim Tinaglia has said the deal needs to be done 'ASAP', hoping the Bears choose his suburb over Hammond, Indiana.

The players

J.B. Pritzker

The Governor of Illinois, who has said he supports assisting with infrastructure costs for the Bears' potential move.

Jim Tinaglia

The Mayor of Arlington Heights, who is eager for the Bears to choose his suburb as the team's new home.

Roger Goodell

The NFL Commissioner, who has stated that the Bears need to find a stadium solution 'relatively soon'.

Illinois Policy Institute

A conservative organization that believes in limited government and has written the article criticizing the proposed incentive package.

HB 910 House Amendment 1

The proposed legislation that would offer property tax breaks for 'megaprojects', including a potential new Bears stadium.

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What they’re saying

“The deal needs to be done 'ASAP,' likely hoping the Bears choose his suburb over Hammond, Indiana.”

— Jim Tinaglia, Mayor of Arlington Heights

“The Bears need to 'find a solution for a stadium' and that the deal needs to be done 'relatively soon'.”

— Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner

What’s next

The proposed incentive package, HB 910 House Amendment 1, will likely be one of the top priorities for state lawmakers as they return to Springfield on April 7. The legislation will need to be carefully scrutinized to ensure it does not further exacerbate Illinois' property tax crisis.

The takeaway

The Bears' potential relocation is a high-stakes decision for Illinois, but the proposed incentive package raises concerns that it could worsen the state's already burdensome property tax situation. Lawmakers must balance the team's needs with the impact on taxpayers, and consider alternative solutions that do not shift the burden onto local residents and businesses.