State Representative David Friess (R-Red Bud) issued a statement on April 28 following his vote against HB 910, the Chicago Bears megaproject initiative. The bill concerns a proposed deal for a new stadium in Arlington Heights and includes property tax proposals.
The issue is significant because it involves large-scale tax breaks for corporations and developers, which Friess said could shift the tax burden to local property owners. He said these measures do not benefit his constituents in the 115th District and could increase financial pressure on middle-class families.
“Last week, House Democrats advanced HB910, the so-called ‘megaproject’ legislation, which includes a proposed deal involving a new Chicago Bears stadium in Arlington Heights. This is one of the most incomplete and concerning property tax proposals I have seen during my time in the General Assembly. I voted NO on this bill when it came before the House on April 22,” Friess said.
He added: “HB 910 provides hundreds of millions of dollars in property tax breaks to large corporations and megaproject developers, shifting that burden onto local property owners. When tax breaks are granted at the top, the cost does not disappear; it is passed down to homeowners, small businesses, and working families. This does nothing to benefit constituents of the 115th District and risks increasing pressure on middle-class families already struggling with rising costs.” Friess also criticized what he called a lack of broad-based relief: “This legislation also fails to provide meaningful, broad-based tax relief for everyday Illinoisans. Instead of addressing the affordability challenges facing our state, it prioritizes select developments over taxpayers. It raises serious concerns about fairness and the potential for unequal treatment under the tax code.”
Friess stated that while he supports keeping the Chicago Bears in Illinois and encourages responsible economic development, he cannot support measures that place additional burdens on working families or local taxpayers: “I want to be clear: I support keeping the Chicago Bears in Illinois and encourage responsible economic development. However, I cannot support a proposal that places the burden of billion-dollar projects on working families and local taxpayers.” He noted bipartisan support for parts of this legislation but stressed continued focus on policies providing real relief.
Friess was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois’ 115th House District in 2023 after replacing Nathan Reitz according to available information.
Looking ahead as HB 910 moves to consideration by state senators, Friess concluded: “As the bill moves to the Senate, changes are expected. I will continue to review any updates closely as
the legislation progresses.”
