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Springfield, IL— Legislation sponsored by State Senator Sally
Turner (R-Beason) to support the next generation of farmers in
Illinois has officially become law after it was signed by the
Governor on Friday, August 1.
Senate Bill 2372 establishes the Farmland Transition Commission
Act, creating a new body within the Illinois Department of
Agriculture tasked with reviewing current barriers to farmland
access for individuals aged 25 to 40. The Commission will also
evaluate existing policies and make recommendations on ways to
encourage the transfer of farmland to current and prospective
farmers within this age group.
“Illinois farmers are the backbone of our state, and this
Commission will provide a space to study and address the issues
preventing young farmers from accessing farmland,” said Senator
Sally Turner. “This law will make a real difference for the next
generation of Illinois farmers and will help secure the future
of agriculture in Illinois.”
The Commission will be composed of agricultural leaders,
policymakers, and young farmers from across the state. It will
meet quarterly and submit annual recommendations to the Governor
and General Assembly. The Commission's key goals include
improving access to farmland, easing generational farm
transfers, and ensuring long-term success for young farmers in
Illinois.
A total of 18 members will take part in the Commission,
including four young farmers from different regions of the
state, and the Director of Agriculture, or their designee, will
serve as chair. Those interested in being appointed to the
Commission by the Director of Agriculture can submit an
application on the Boards and Commissions
website.
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"The future of farming is in the hands of young people, and we
need to ensure they have the tools and support they need to
succeed," continued Senator Turner. "By bringing together a
diverse group of stakeholders, this Commission will identify and
work to break down the barriers young farmers face. I'm proud to
see this initiative become law and look forward to seeing the
positive changes it will bring."
The Commission will provide its first annual report with
recommendations on January 1, 2026. The Commission will continue
to operate through December 31, 2031.
[Marcus J. Durrett
Senior Communications Strategist
Communications and Public Affairs
Illinois Senate Republican Staff]
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