Amid ongoing discussions about the Chicago Bears’ stadium future, Iowa state senators introduced Senate File 2252 on Tuesday, proposing financial incentives to bring the team to Iowa. The bill seeks to expand the state’s Major Economic Growth Attraction (MEGA) program to cover the construction of an NFL stadium, offering the Bears a path away from Illinois for their next home.
Details of the Senate Bill and Sponsoring Legislators
The legislation was introduced by seven Republican state senators from various Iowa communities, including Dan Dawson of Council Bluffs, Kerry Gruenhagen of Walcott, Dawn Driscoll of Williamsburg, Scott Webster of Bettendorf, Mike Bousselot of Ankeney, Cherielynn Westrich of Ottumwa, and Carrie Koelker of Dyersville. The bill proposes that the Iowa Economic Development Authority approve incentives providing significant economic benefits for hosting an NFL franchise stadium in the state.
Economic Incentives and the MEGA Program Expansion
The MEGA program is designed to attract projects valued at $1 billion or more to Iowa, encouraging substantial economic growth. Senate File 2252 would specifically amend this program to include incentivizing the building of an NFL stadium. Iowa officials see this as an opportunity to boost jobs, tourism, and wider economic activity across the region.
Competition from Indiana and Bears’ Ongoing Stadium Negotiations in Illinois
This legislative effort follows a similar stadium pitch from Indiana, which proposed the lakefront Halas Harbor project in Northwest Indiana to entice the Bears. Meanwhile, sources report that the Bears and Illinois leaders are nearing agreements key to advancing the Arlington Heights stadium plan. Since purchasing a 326-acre site at Arlington Park in February 2023 for $197.2 million, the Bears shifted stadium plans multiple times, including considering Soldier Field renovations and exploring options outside Illinois like Northwest Indiana.
Perspectives from Iowa Senators Advocating for the Bill
Bringing an NFL team to Iowa would attract jobs, tourism and fans to our state and give us the opportunity to showcase what Iowa really has to offer,
Gruenhagen said in a press release announcing the bill.
Iowans have dedicated themselves to our college sports teams, and we’re ready to attract a professional team to our great state.
– Kerry Gruenhagen, Iowa State Senator
Potential Impact on Regional Sports and Economic Landscape
If the bill progresses, Iowa could become a serious contender in the Chicago Bears stadium relocation discussions, offering an alternative to Illinois and Indiana that combines financial incentives with a supportive local environment. Given the Bears’ complicated stadium saga—including multiple proposed venues and shifting timelines—this legislative push adds an additional layer of competition. The ultimate outcome will influence not just the franchise’s future home but also economic opportunities across these Midwest regions.
