By Andi Anderson
Across Illinois, important steps are being taken to improve farm policies and strengthen support for agriculture. Since January, efforts have been focused on better conservation programs, farmland access, and soil health.
Several bills are being promoted this session. The Fall Covers for Spring Savings Program (HB3992/SB2625) encourages farmers to plant cover crops by giving a $5 per acre insurance discount.
However, current funding only supports 100,000 acres, while demand is double. AFT urges more state investment to support 1 million acres and help meet soil and water goals.
The Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SB2638) bill aims to increase operational funding. These districts are vital in offering technical support to farmers across the state.
SB2372 proposes creating a Farmland Transition Commission to improve land access for new farmers, while HB3067 would start the Small Farmer Restoration Program to help disadvantaged farmers with grants and training.
It also suggests the Farm Conservation Corps to introduce underserved youth to farm careers.
HB54 wants to make the first week of March Soil Health Week to raise awareness about soil’s key role in agriculture.
This session, AFT joined partners in five advocacy events to support these causes. Days like Soil Health Advocacy Day, SWCD Advocacy Day, and Food & Farm Advocacy Day brought together farmers, students, and experts to speak with legislators.
On Agriculture Legislative Day, state leaders including Governor Pritzker spoke in support of agriculture. Conservation Lobby Day also drew over 100 professionals to support water and land protection.
To help, citizens can contact state lawmakers and ask them to co-sponsor HB3992 or SB2625 and support increased funding in the state budget. These actions can strengthen Illinois farms and the environment for future generations.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Illinois, General