Senate Republicans have introduced a bill to reinstate $4 million in critical funding for soil and water conservation districts (SWCD) that had been cut from the budget by Governor Pritzker. These districts work to protect Illinois’ valuable soil and water resources through strategic conservation efforts.

The legislation, filed by State Senator Tom Bennett (R-Gibson City), responds to a significant reduction in funding for soil and water conservation districts in Pritzker’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget.

Senate Bill 3964 addresses this challenge by reallocating funds through the Partners for Conservation Fund, highlighting the indispensable role of SWCDs in environmental stewardship.

This crucial legislation aims to ensure these essential districts can continue their vital work in environmental protection and sustainable resource management.