News

Illinois Farmers Union takes priorities to Springfield

The engagement consultant for Illinois Farmers Union (IFU) says the organization is pushing its priorities to state lawmakers.

Cheyanne Bristol says recent visits to Springfield have been highlighted by discussions on the need for strong conservation programs.

“In our meeting with Representative Harper, who is the Chair of the Agriculture Committee, we had talked about good stewardship of the land.”  She says, “We believe in climate smart practices, and of course she was very for that.”

Bristol says farmland access and support of beginning farmers are also priorities.

“Trying to gain farmland, capital and infrastructure and the money and grant money to do that for our young farmers and the access and knowledge to do that for our young farmers, it’s really essential.”  She says, “We see so many farmers retiring.”

She tells Brownfield lawmakers are facing many budget uncertainties, so any new initiatives likely face headwinds.

“They’re unsure of what’s happening with all of the budget cuts that are happening at the national level, reflecting that down to the state level.”  She says, “Unfortunately, we are in a little bit of a bind when it comes to that.”

Bristol says developing more competitive and fair markets and fighting for farmers’ right to repair their own equipment are also among IFU’s 2025 priorities.

AUDIO: Cheyanne Bristol – Illinois Farmers Union