By Andi Anderson
The Illinois Corn Growers Association (ICGA) is committed to championing the interests of its members, advocating for farmer concerns in both Springfield and Washington, D.C. As we step into the new year, ICGA gears up to focus on several key policies that directly impact the farming community.
State Priorities:
- Carbon Capture and Sequestration Legislation: ICGA remains active in Springfield negotiations to represent farmers' concerns on eminent domain, CO2 safety, and market opportunities for Illinois agriculture within the sphere of carbon capture and storage (CCS).
- Retailer Funding for Ethanol Blends: Seeking funding to support fuel retailers in offering higher blends of ethanol, ICGA aims to benefit consumers with reduced prices at the pump and lower carbon emissions.
- Continued Support for NCERC: Prioritizing funding for the National Corn to Ethanol Research Center (NCERC), ICGA remains committed to fostering research and development in the ethanol industry.
- Clean Fuel Standard Discussions: Engaged in conversations about Illinois's clean fuel standards, ICGA advocates for a lower carbon future that recognizes the extensive contributions of agriculture.
- Strengthening AIMA: Focused on Agriculture Impact Mitigation Agreements (AIMA), ICGA works to bolster agreements that aid in addressing the impact of utility projects on agricultural land.
- Enhanced Funding for Fall Covers for Spring Savings: Seeking to expand the Fall Covers for Spring Savings Program, ICGA aims to promote farmer conservation practices by encouraging cover crop adoption and enhancing incentives.
Federal Priorities:
- Next Generation Fuels Act: ICGA advocates for the passage of the Next Generation Fuels Act to empower consumer vehicle choices while promoting lower-carbon internal combustion engines, thereby boosting ethanol demand.
- Lock and Dam Funding: Supporting the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA24), ICGA emphasizes the criticality of funding for Illinois' lock and dam systems, essential for the state's grain export market.
- Farm Bill: ICGA presses for a comprehensive five-year farm bill, prioritizing robust crop insurance, increased funding for agricultural programs, and flexibility in USDA's conservation programs.
- EPA Proposal Monitoring: ICGA closely monitors the EPA's final Multipollutant Emissions Standard and stands ready for congressional intervention if it adversely impacts agriculture.
- NHTSA Proposal Oversight: Vigilantly overseeing the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's electric vehicle rule, ICGA stands prepared for potential congressional intervention should it unfavorably impact the agricultural industry.
The ICGA invites all concerned stakeholders to engage in advocating for these priorities shaping the future of Illinois farming.
Photo Credit: illinois-corn-growers-association
Categories: Illinois, Crops, Corn