Illinois Senate Approves New Deer Crop Damage Law

By Andi Anderson

Illinois farmers may soon have new powers to deal with deer that destroy their crops. The Illinois Senate has passed Senate Bill 710, which allows agricultural landowners to obtain permits to cull deer responsible for damaging crop yields.

State Senator Patrick Joyce of Essex sponsored the bill. He stated that the law is necessary to help farmers protect their income from deer damage, which has become a widespread concern across the state. Joyce noted that the legislation followed months of discussions involving the Illinois Farm Bureau and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR).

The new measure allows for expanded permitting and additional tags, making it easier for farmers to take action against problem deer. “We need to give our farmers the tools they need when they have nuisance deer,” said Joyce. “We’ve had people from all over the state asking for change.”

Senator Dale Fowler of Harrisburg praised the bill as a major win for farmers in his district, who have suffered significant financial losses due to deer. He thanked Joyce and said the bill would help protect livelihoods.

Senator Terri Bryant of Murphysboro shared that a large pumpkin grower in her district lost 10% of their crop to deer two years ago. Such examples, she said, highlight the need for action.

Senate Bill 710 passed unanimously with a 51–0 vote, showing strong bipartisan support. Joyce also acknowledged the support of IDNR, the Illinois Farm Bureau, and fellow lawmakers in creating effective solutions.

On the same day, the Senate Agriculture Committee approved House Bill 2340. This bill expands eligibility for landowners to receive free deer permits, further supporting farmers dealing with wildlife issues.

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