WASHINGTON, D.C. — A new federal proposal could complicate efforts to relocate the Chicago Bears to Indiana.

Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Greg Casar this week introduced the “Home Team Act,” a bill aimed at giving local communities the first opportunity to purchase professional sports teams before they relocate.

Under the proposal, team owners seeking to move would be required to give local buyers up to one year to match or negotiate a purchase offer.

“If you’re a fan watching this, yes — this is a ‘Keep the Bears in Chicago’ bill,” Casar said during a Thursday press conference. “If no local group steps forward, then the owner would still have the option to relocate.”

Supporters of the legislation argue that it would help prevent team owners from leveraging relocation threats to secure taxpayer-funded incentives from competing states.

“Right now, Indiana taxpayers are effectively competing with Illinois taxpayers to subsidize a franchise valued at around $8 billion,” Casar said. “When negotiations happen under pressure, communities often end up paying more than they should.”

Sanders echoed that sentiment, criticizing what he described as a system that prioritizes wealthy owners over everyday fans.

“We should not allow the greed of a handful of billionaires to make it harder for working families to support and enjoy their local teams,” Sanders said.

The proposal, however, has already drawn sharp criticism from leaders in Indiana. Gov. Mike Braun dismissed the bill as excessive government interference, arguing that residents would not support federal involvement in private business transactions.

“Hoosiers won’t tolerate government control over who can buy or sell a business,” Braun said in a statement, calling the proposal “unrealistic.”

At the state level, reactions have been more mixed. State Rep. Earl Harris Jr. said he understands the bill’s intent but believes it overlooks safeguards already included in Indiana’s proposal to attract the Bears.

“This isn’t about handing over a free stadium,” Harris said. “The team is expected to invest around $2 billion, which is a significant commitment. From what we’re hearing, discussions are moving forward, and there’s optimism about a potential announcement.”

Political analysts remain skeptical about the bill’s chances in Congress. Laura Wilson noted that larger national issues — including geopolitical tensions and rising energy prices — are likely to overshadow the proposal.

“The likelihood of this bill passing is very low,” Wilson said. “It’s simply not a top priority for most lawmakers or voters right now.”

Meanwhile, attention is shifting back to Illinois, where lawmakers are working on a competing development proposal aimed at keeping the Bears in Chicago. The Illinois General Assembly is expected to finalize its position by the end of May, setting the stage for a high-stakes decision on the team’s future.