Read the Chicago Bears’ statement after Gov. Braun signs stadium bill

Indiana Gov. Mike Braun has signed a Chicago Bears stadium bill Thursday, the biggest step yet as the state seeks to lure the team across the border.

The new stadium would be located in Hammond near Wolf Lake, with the state of Indiana committing up to $1 billion to help finance the project and to convince the Bears to leave Illinois after playing in the state for more than 100 years.

“We made it clear from the beginning that Indiana is open for business,” Braun said in a statement. “I’m thrilled to sign Senate Bill 27 to create the framework to build a new world-class stadium in Northwest Indiana. Now let’s get this across the goal line.”

The Bears issued a statement following Braun’s signing of the bill:

“Indiana has taken important steps over the last few months, and we are grateful for the leadership reflected by Governor Braun signing SB 27, establishing the framework for a stadium development in Northwest Indiana.

“We continue to work on the necessary due diligence and appreciate the ongoing engagement with Indiana state and local leaders.”

The Indiana House is expected to advance a measure aimed at a Chicago Bears stadium project, and we’re learning more about the tax increases that would accompany it, as Mary Ann Ahern reports.

The Bears have been looking at sites for a new home for years, with their biggest step to date being the purchase of the site of the former Arlington International Racecourse in suburban Arlington Heights.

As Illinois lawmakers mull how to proceed on a deal to keep the Bears in the state, Indiana lawmakers have put together an incentives package to try to bring the team to the Hoosier State.

Illinois lawmakers are continuing talks with the team, but Indiana’s move to pass legislation Thursday is the biggest move yet in the fight over the future home of the Chicago Bears.