Legislation to help support the next generation of Illinois farmers has now officially passed out of the General Assembly.

Senate Bill 2372 establishes the Farmland Transition Commission, a new body within the Illinois Department of Agriculture tasked with studying and addressing the challenges faced by individuals aged 25 to 40 who are seeking to purchase or access farmland. The Commission will meet quarterly and submit annual policy recommendations to the Governor and General Assembly through 2031.

The Farmland Transition Commission will be made up of agricultural leaders, policymakers, and young farmers from across the state. The group will evaluate current programs and incentives and provide recommendations to improve land access, ease generational farm transfers, and support long-term success for new and aspiring farmers. 

Senate Bill 2372 passed both chambers with unanimous support and now heads to the Governor’s desk.