Harris bill to bring Professional Sports Development Commission to Northwest Indiana passes Senate

House Bill 1292, authored by State Rep. Earl Harris Jr. (D-East Chicago), passed through the Senate today by a vote of 46-2. The bill establishes the Northwest Indiana Professional Sports Development Commission, with the goal of attracting professional sports franchises to Northwest Indiana. The bill now heads back to the House for a concurrence vote and will then head to Gov. Braun's desk to be signed into law.

Harris released the following statement upon the bill's passage in the Senate:

"Northwest Indiana has a unique opportunity for economic development. Capitalizing on The Region's proximity to Chicago by bringing professional sports teams here makes sense for all parties involved. This is a chance to bring great investments and jobs to our community, and we know that The Region offers a great base of operation and amazing fans for any sports franchise looking for a home.

"I am very grateful for all the hard work of everyone, in both parties, that had a hand in getting this bill through the legislature. This piece of legislation is evidence that when we reach across the aisle, we can accomplish great things for the people of our state. I am hopeful that the commission will be successful in attracting a professional sports franchise to our area, and we have already heard from several sports organizations interested in the possibility of calling Northwest Indiana 'home.'"