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Bears evaluating stadium options after Illinois legislature fails to act

3 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 1, 2026, 1:52 PM

Last updated Jun 1, 2026

Bears evaluating stadium options after Illinois legislature fails to act

Summary

The Chicago Bears announced they are considering options for a new stadium after the Illinois House concluded its legislative session without passing supportive bills. The team can either proceed with plans to build in Arlington Heights, where they own property, or explore a potential site in Hammond, Indiana, which has already offered legislative incentives. The Bears stated they would finalize their evaluation on a timeline communicated earlier and will provide an update soon. Legislators in Illinois suspect the team's interest in Indiana may not be genuine, raising questions about their potential departure from the state.

Source Links

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Key Details

•Illinois House closed session without passing stadium aid.
•Bears own land in Arlington Heights for potential construction.
•Hammond, Indiana has offered incentives for a new stadium.
•Bears to update on their stadium plans this summer.
•Legislators in Illinois believe team may not leave the state.

Latest Updates

2:50 PMESPN — Illinois won't vote on Bears' stadium until fall
10:35 AMYahoo Sports — Bears say they are evaluating their options after getting no help from Illinois legislature

What they're saying

"
Illinois lawmakers have adjourned their spring session without passing a bill aiming to keep the Chicago Bears from leaving the state and will now wait until fall to take up the matter. The Bears say they plan to announce their decision soon.
— ESPNby Courtney Cronin