The Chicago Bears took a significant step toward leaving Illinois by voting to advance stadium development in Hammond, Indiana. This marks the first time the team's board has voted on any stadium site. The move comes after Illinois' spring legislative session ended without passing the "megaprojects" bill that would have provided tax certainty for the team's Arlington Heights property.

The Bears have dedicated $2 billion toward stadium construction. When Illinois legislation allowing property tax exemptions died, Senator Bill Cunningham introduced alternative legislation creating sports stadium authorities. The bill passed the Senate but the House adjourned without taking action. The team maintains they cannot build without property tax certainty.

The Bears currently own a 326-acre property in Arlington Heights purchased in 2021. Indiana passed legislation ensuring the tax certainty the Bears need, putting them "in the lead" to lure the team across state lines. The club has kept the stadium committee and league office apprised of all developments as the situation evolves.