FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WPTA) - Indiana lawmakers took a major step toward landing a deal with the Chicago Bears on Thursday after a House committee voted unanimously to advance legislation supporting the NFL team’s potential relocation.
The Bears are focusing on Hammond in northwest Indiana for a proposed world-class stadium near the Wolf Lake area, according to a team statement. The move from Chicago’s Soldier Field is not finalized, but state officials say they are working on a public-private partnership with the team.
### Committee approves bill unanimously
The Indiana House committee voted 24-0 to move the Bears stadium bill forward during a celebratory session.
“What a day for Indiana,” House Speaker Todd Huston said.
Huston said the state is working with the Bears on a shared commitment to make the relocation happen.
“Said another way, there’s a shared commitment between both these parties to make this happen,” Huston said.
### Bears statement outlines vision
The Bears released a statement saying they have a “vision to build a world class stadium near the Wolf Lake area in Hammond.”
Chicago Bears Statement(wpta)
Gov. Mike Braun said there is a “broad framework for negotiating a final deal.”
Politicians from northwest Indiana lined up at the committee hearing to support the proposal.
“I look forward to, in my role serving on the County Council, in any way I can be helpful to this to work with our partners to make sure we take the necessary steps to sustain this vision and do the Super Bowl shuffle in Northwest Indiana the next time it happens,” said Randy Niemeyer of the Lake County Council.
### Mixed reactions from residents
Local residents had varying opinions on the potential move.
“I think it’s a great idea, honestly, business wise for business purposes I think it’s a great idea, it will create more jobs,” said Ron Haller.
Matt Fabina expressed skepticism the deal would become reality.
“I don’t think the Chicago area or Illinois will let the Bears go, I think that we’re kind of being used as a pawn,” Fabina said. “I think it’s far from over.”
The Bears stadium bill now heads to the full House. The governor appears ready to sign the legislation if it passes.
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