Illinois Agriculture Legislative Day Unites Diverse Stakeholders to Advocate for State's Largest Industry

By Yukta Sinha

"Agriculture unites us all" was the resounding message as representatives from University of Illinois Extension, the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, and nearly 50 diverse agriculture organizations converged on the state Capitol for the 55th annual Illinois Agriculture Legislative Day.

The event, organized by the Illinois Department of Agriculture, brought together agricultural stakeholders to advocate for the industry that serves as the backbone of Illinois' economy. The state continues to be a leading producer of soybeans, corn, and swine, as well as numerous specialty crops.

The day featured opening remarks from Governor J.B. Pritzker, Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton, and Director Costello, with additional comments from Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Doris Turner (D-Springfield) and House Agriculture Committee Minority Spokesperson Charlie Meier (R-109th District).

"We are proud to stand alongside our partners to advocate for policies that support the continued growth and sustainability of this vital industry," said Germán Bollero, dean of the College of ACES. "Illinois Agricultural Legislative Day serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of agriculture, not just to Illinois’ economy, but to the health and well-being of our communities. Our college is committed to advancing research, education, and outreach that empowers future generations of agricultural leaders, from our youth programs to cutting-edge research in sustainable farming practices and beyond."

Gathering Bipartisan Support for House Bill 4035 

Throughout the day, attendees had opportunities to meet with legislators to discuss University of Illinois’ efforts to support agriculture through research, education, and outreach programs. Key topics included sustaining family farms, expanding agricultural education, increasing access to mental health resources in rural communities, and protecting farmland.

The recently introduced House Bill 4035 seeks to increase Extension funding through the Illinois Department of Agriculture, which will put more educators in the field throughout the state. These educators provide programs, services, and research-based information to the people of Illinois. Constituents can easily express their support for HB4035 by using Illinois Connections to contact their legislators. 

Youth Development: Fostering the Next Generation in Agriculture

Hundreds of young leaders from 4-H, FFA, and Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences participated, highlighting the vital role of youth in agriculture's future.

In a powerful address, Illinois 4-H Youth Leadership Team Chair Janella Neary shared how the organization has grown dramatically. "The University of Illinois Extension 4-H program reaches nearly 200,000 youth between the ages of five to 18," Neary told lawmakers. 

Neary, a freshman at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign studying agricultural education in the College of ACES, emphasized how 4-H provides youth with opportunities to explore agriculture, STEM, community service, civic engagement, and leadership development. She highlighted her journey from showing livestock on her family's Centennial Farm to chairing the state's 4-H Youth Leadership Team.

"I would not be the person I am today without 4-H and the guidance given to me by my mentors," Neary said. "As we reflect today on the impact of 4-H and the dedication of our agriculturist partners, let us remember that University of Illinois and Illinois Extension positively impact the families in your legislative districts."