Illinois Governor JB Pritzker used a press briefing in Elmwood Park on Tuesday to address two distinct concerns that affect state residents: government ethics and the future of the Chicago Bears. The governor emphasized that the vast majority of legislators are committed to following ethics rules and expressed a desire to work with the General Assembly to improve standards.
Ethics Conversation with Legislators
“We’re trying to listen to the legislators,” Pritzker said, adding that “the vast majority, in fact, nearly all of the legislators, are people who are following all the ethics rules and who want to have their colleagues do better.” He framed the upcoming full session in January as an opportunity for the legislature to consider concrete ethics measures, even though the current veto session, which begins on Nov. 17, is brief.
The governor warned that the short veto window makes it unlikely that a comprehensive ethics package will be passed now. “It’s such a short period of time in the veto session,” he noted. “It’s unlikely we’ll have a whole slate of legislation. It’ll just be a few specific items that get brought up.” Nonetheless, Pritzker said he will encourage lawmakers to draft proposals that could be introduced when the regular session convenes.
Proposed Bill to Keep the Bears in Illinois
When asked about specific legislative priorities, Pritzker highlighted a bill aimed at retaining the Chicago Bears within the state. “I’m encouraging the legislature to take up a bill that would help the Bears stay in the state of Illinois,” the governor explained. The football franchise has recently expressed interest in moving its home games to Hammond, Indiana, after indicating a desire to leave Soldier Field. While the Bears are exploring an incentive‑rich offer from Indiana, they still own the land where the former Arlington Park racetrack stood in Arlington Heights, suggesting they have not completely abandoned Illinois.
The proposed legislation would likely address financial incentives, stadium improvements, or other measures designed to make Illinois a more attractive home for the team. Pritzker did not provide details on the bill’s content, but he indicated that the issue would be part of the broader conversation with lawmakers during the upcoming session.
Legislative Calendar
The governor outlined the schedule for the upcoming veto session, noting that it will run three days the week before Thanksgiving and three days the week after. This condensed timeline underscores the need for focused, targeted action rather than a sweeping legislative agenda.
While the governor’s remarks were optimistic about the willingness of legislators to uphold ethics standards, he acknowledged the practical constraints of the current session. The emphasis on a Bears‑related bill reflects a broader concern for preserving Illinois’ cultural and economic assets, a priority that resonates with many constituents who value both good governance and the state’s sports heritage.
Looking Ahead
As the full session approaches in January, Illinois stakeholders will watch to see whether the governor’s call for ethics reforms and the Bears incentive bill translate into concrete proposals. The outcome will shape not only the state’s political climate but also its ability to retain a major professional sports franchise.
Original reporting: Capitol City Now (WTAX 1240 Springfield) — read the source article.
