By Andi Anderson
The Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB) has announced its 2025 national legislative priorities, aiming to address key challenges in agriculture. The agenda focuses on finalizing a new farm bill, implementing tax reforms, and negotiating trade deals to benefit farmers.
These priorities guide IFB's national legislative team, which collaborates with county Farm Bureaus and the Governmental Affairs and Commodities Division.
With a new administration in place in 2025, including a Republican-controlled White House and Congress, the IFB expects significant legislative activity.
One pressing concern is the lack of a five-year farm bill. The 2018 bill was extended through September 2024, but lawmakers have committed to initiating discussions for a bipartisan solution.
Ryan Whitehouse, IFB’s Director of National Legislation, emphasized the importance of farmer engagement, stating, "Farmer stories make a difference in conveying the challenges and needs to policymakers."
In 2024, the IFB facilitated interactions between farmers and the Illinois congressional delegation to address key issues like trade barriers, the farm economy, and legislative gaps. Building on this momentum, the IFB's 2025 priorities include:
Farm Bill
- Finalizing a five-year bipartisan farm bill
- Strengthening crop insurance as a safety net
- Increasing trade promotion funding
- Addressing California's Proposition 12
Tax Reforms
- Supporting provisions from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
- Promoting tax credits for sustainable aviation fuel
Trade and Tariffs
- Defending trade agreements
- Expanding markets for Illinois agriculture products
- Removing trade barriers
The IFB is committed to engaging with Congress and regulatory bodies to advance these priorities through outreach, farm visits, and policy discussions. These efforts aim to ensure the growth and sustainability of Illinois agriculture.
Photo Credit: illinois-farm-bureau
Categories: Illinois, Government & Policy