Overview
- Senators passed SB 27 in a 46-2 vote to create a Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority, with the measure now heading to the House as Governor Mike Braun called the move a critical step.
- The proposal lets a state-run authority issue long-term bonds and use local excise, food and beverage, and innkeeper taxes for lease payments, requires a lease of at least 35 years, and gives a $1 purchase option if bond and lease terms are satisfied.
- Senate budget writers stripped earlier goals for 15% minority- and 5% women-owned business participation in contracting.
- Union leaders say bill language would bar project labor agreements, three northwest Indiana GOP county chairs urged its removal, and lawmakers involved expect the House to take up changes.
- Gary has pitched three sites—West End near Hard Rock Casino, Buffington Harbor, and Miller Beach—after Bears and NFL leaders toured Illinois and Indiana locations on Jan. 10, while Illinois officials signal only limited infrastructure support and the team has not chosen a site.