IL Corn Attends Illinois Agriculture Legislative Day

Lyndi Allen
April 10, 2025
A collage of photos of people in suits and ties

On Wednesday, April 9, IL Corn Growers Association (ICGA) took part in the Annual Illinois Agriculture Legislative Day (IALD), hosted by Illinois Department of Agriculture, joining other ag organizations and FFA students to advocate for Illinois’ agricultural priorities in Springfield, Illinois.


The day began at the FFA’s IALD program featuring guest speakers who discussed the importance of agriculture in Illinois. ICGA board members were able to meet and talk with FFA students and other agriculture professionals.


Following the program, ICGA board members had 14 meetings with legislators at the Capitol and Stratton Building, discussing our top policy issues that impact Illinois corn farmers. Our top priorities included:

  • Support Renewable Fuel Infrastructure Program
  • This bill would use existing industry funds to provide grants for upgrading fuel infrastructure to accommodate higher blends of renewable fuels. We ask that legislation co-sponsor and support its inclusion in the budget.
  • Support Family Farm Preservation Act
  • Reforms the Illinois Estate Tax and provides tax relief for Farm Families. The legislation Changes the current $4 million dollar threshold in 3 ways for estates that may claim the 2032a IRS agricultural special use valuation rule for Illinois Estate Tax Purposes.
  • Oppose Pesticide Notification for Schools
  • This bill introduces complex and redundant requirements for pesticide applications near schools. We urge lawmakers to pause the bill and pursue a collaborative, data-driven approach—like expanding existing mapping tools—to improve communication without adding regulatory complexity or hindering agriculture.


IL Corn thanks the lawmakers who took the time to meet with us and listen to the needs of Illinois corn farmers. IL Corn remains committed to advocating for policies that protect and provide opportunities for agriculture in our state.


Stay informed and get involved! Sign up for IL Corn’s Phone-to-Action to know when your voice is needed in Springfield.

Rep. Darin LaHood, Cliff Lane, and Mike Shane
By Lyndi Allen July 23, 2026
There are some common misconceptions that farmers want all lawmakers to understand about farming and agriculture.
Illinois Farmer Ron Miller
By Tara Desmond July 23, 2026
Learn how Illinois farmer Leslie Miller helped pioneer anhydrous ammonia use, transforming corn production and shaping modern nutrient management.
thumbnail of Rod Weinzierl
By Tara Desmond July 23, 2026
Rod Weinzierl breaks down what IL Corn really does — from crop insurance breakthroughs to river infrastructure to advice for the next generation of farmers.
Nicole (York) Racey
By Pearl McDade July 22, 2026
Nicole Racey reflects on her internship with IL Corn, her career in higher education, favorite memories, and advice for IL Corn interns
Tara Harvesting
By Tara Desmond July 22, 2026
Tara Barrett-Duzan left journalism to save her family's farm after tragedy struck twice - a story now told in the documentary "The Farmer's Daughter."
cover crops in an Illinois field
July 16, 2026
2026 Cover Crop Coupon is here. New seed suppliers and application discounts give Illinois farmers more options to save on conservation practices.
Show More