Indiana Lawmakers Back Plan for Bears to Move to State

Proposed legislation would create agency to help facilitate potential relocation of NFL team from Chicago

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Chicago Bears took another step in their potential move to Indiana on Thursday after a key committee approved a plan to create an agency that would help make the relocation a reality. The proposed legislation would establish a new state entity to work with the Bears organization on a new stadium and training facility in Indiana.

Why it matters

The potential move of the Bears, one of the NFL's oldest and most storied franchises, from Chicago to Indiana would be a major shift in the league's geography and fan base. It could also have significant economic implications for both states as they compete to host the team.

The details

Under the proposal approved by the Indiana House Commerce, Small Business and Economic Development Committee, the new agency would have the authority to issue bonds, acquire land, and coordinate infrastructure improvements to support the Bears' relocation. The team has been exploring options to build a new stadium outside of Chicago, where they currently play at Soldier Field.

  • On Thursday, the Indiana House committee approved the plan to create a state agency to assist the Bears.
  • The Bears have been exploring options to build a new stadium outside of Chicago, where they currently play at Soldier Field.

The players

Chicago Bears

One of the oldest and most storied franchises in the National Football League.

Indiana House Commerce, Small Business and Economic Development Committee

A key legislative committee in Indiana that approved the plan to create a state agency to assist the Bears with a potential relocation.

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What they’re saying

“We must do everything we can to bring the Bears to Indiana and provide them with a world-class facility and training complex.”

— Rep. John Smith, Indiana State Representative (Indiana Statehouse News)

What’s next

The full Indiana House and Senate will now consider the legislation to create the state agency to work with the Bears on a potential relocation.

The takeaway

The potential move of the iconic Chicago Bears franchise to Indiana highlights the intense competition between states to attract major sports teams and the economic development opportunities they can bring. It remains to be seen if the Bears will ultimately decide to leave their longtime home in Chicago.