After more than three years on the legislative backburner, the Illinois House on Wednesday approved a major economic development bill that would clear the path for the Chicago Bears to build a new domed stadium in Arlington Heights.
The measure passed 78-32. It is ostensibly a step toward keeping the Bears from moving to Indiana.
The team said in a statement after the vote they “welcome the progress,” but will need more changes.
Unlike Indiana, Illinois’ deal would not fund direct stadium construction but would allow the Bears to negotiate their property tax bill with surrounding taxing bodies for up to 40 years.
The so-called “megaproject” designation would also be available for all large developments on a tiered basis based on meeting certain levels of financial investment.
