Harris: SB 27 creates a path toward prosperity in Northwest Indiana

Today, Feb. 19, Senate Bill 27 was amended in the House Ways and Means Committee and now heads to the House floor. The bill establishes the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority to acquire and finance facilities in The Region.

State Rep. Earl Harris Jr. (D-East Chicago), issued the following statement:

"Bringing professional sports to Northwest Indiana – and all the economic benefits that come with them – was a priority for my father when he served in the Statehouse, and I'm proud to take part in continuing that work. As amended in the Ways and Means Committee, Senate Bill 27 prioritizes the growth of Northwest Indiana and the laborers who, quite literally, lay the foundation for said growth.

"In 2025, I authored House Enrolled Act 1292. This legislation established the Northwest Indiana Professional Sports Development Commission for the purpose of bringing professional sports to our community. Senate Bill 27 continues the work of bringing the Bears to Northwest Indiana. Bringing teams to Northwest Indiana and creating the infrastructure to support them will ultimately boost our local and state economy by creating jobs and bringing tourists to The Region.

"Senate Bill 27 is a bipartisan effort that creates a path toward prosperity in Northwest Indiana, and I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House and Senate to get this to the governor's desk."