Illinois Lawmakers Advance Bill Eyed by Chicago Bears for New Stadium Project

The so-called "mega projects" bill would give large developers a break on property taxes.

Feb. 26, 2026 at 7:22pm

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Illinois state lawmakers have advanced a bill that the Chicago Bears insist is necessary to build a new domed stadium in northwest suburban Arlington Heights. The bill, known as the "mega projects" bill, would give large developers like the Bears a break on property taxes by allowing them to make "payments in lieu of taxes" to local governments.

Why it matters

The Bears have said "tax predictability" is essential for their planned $2 billion investment in a new stadium, but critics argue a franchise valued at over $8 billion should not get property tax breaks that fund local schools and services. Meanwhile, Indiana lawmakers are also making efforts to lure the Bears to build a stadium in Hammond.

The details

The Illinois bill, HB 2789, was discussed by state lawmakers on the Illinois House Revenue & Finance Committee. It still needs full approval by the House, Senate, and Gov. JB Pritzker. The Bears have argued the tax breaks are necessary, while critics say the wealthy franchise should not receive such concessions. Studies have found the final stadium project could net the Village of Arlington Heights millions in new tax revenue.

  • The Illinois bill was advanced by state lawmakers on February 26, 2026.
  • The Indiana House of Representatives passed a bill to establish funding mechanisms for a Bears stadium in Hammond on February 21, 2026.

The players

Chicago Bears

A professional American football team that plays in the National Football League (NFL). The Bears are currently exploring options for a new stadium, including in Arlington Heights, Illinois and Hammond, Indiana.

Illinois General Assembly

The state legislature of Illinois, consisting of the Illinois Senate and the Illinois House of Representatives.

Indiana General Assembly

The state legislature of Indiana, consisting of the Indiana Senate and the Indiana House of Representatives.

JB Pritzker

The current Governor of Illinois.

Mike Braun

The current Governor of Indiana.

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What they’re saying

“We must provide tax predictability to ensure the investment of around $2 billion to build the stadium.”

— Chicago Bears (fox32chicago.com)

“A franchise valued at more than $8 billion should not get a break on property taxes that go to fund local schools and other agencies.”

— Critics (fox32chicago.com)

What’s next

The Illinois bill, HB 2789, still needs full approval by the Illinois House and Senate, and to be signed by Gov. JB Pritzker. The Indiana bill passed by the Indiana House of Representatives will still need final approval from the Indiana Senate and Gov. Mike Braun.

The takeaway

The competition between Illinois and Indiana to host the Chicago Bears' new stadium highlights the high-stakes battle for major sports franchises and the tax incentives governments are willing to offer to attract them. The outcome will impact the economic futures of the communities involved and the long-term home of one of the NFL's most iconic teams.