Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker met with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, Chicago Bears minority owner Pat Ryan and Illinois legislative leaders Thursday as efforts to keep the franchise in the state continue.

Pritzker’s office said the meeting focused on keeping the Bears in Illinois while protecting taxpayers. House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, state Rep. Kam Buckner and state Sen. Bill Cunningham also attended the meeting, which took place in Illinois.

“The Governor and General Assembly leadership were glad to participate in a productive meeting focused on keeping the Bears in Illinois and protecting taxpayers,” Pritzker’s office said.

The NFL also confirmed the meeting and stressed the need for progress on the Bears’ long-term stadium plans.

“The NFL appreciated the opportunity to meet with Governor Pritzker and legislative leaders today,” the league said. “Timely action is essential as the Bears work to find a long-term stadium solution for the club and their fans.”

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The meeting comes as the Bears continue to consider their stadium options. The team has focused on Hammond, Indiana, in recent months after years of pursuing a new stadium in Arlington Heights.

Bears President and CEO Kevin Warren said in August that the team’s “sole focus” was a world-class stadium and mixed-use development in Hammond. However, Illinois officials have continued discussions with the franchise about keeping it in the state.

Ryan has also become involved in those talks. According to reporting cited in the provided material, he has met with Illinois officials as negotiations have continued.

The Bears have played at Soldier Field since 1971. Their stadium search has now reached an important stage, with Illinois lawmakers preparing for the November veto session, when stadium legislation could potentially return.