IL Corn Calls for Legislative Action from Congress

Congress returns to Washington, D.C. this week following the midterm elections, with legislative opportunities still on the table. Illinois corn farmers still need Congress to pass legislation that expands ethanol demand, pass a new Farm Bill, and support agricultural markets and farm businesses.

Key Legislative Priorities:

Year-round E15: Expand nationwide access to E15, providing consumers with more fuel choices and creating additional opportunities for corn-based ethanol.
Status: House passed standalone year-round E15 legislation in May; Senate Agriculture Committee advanced year-round E15 within the Farm Bill in September. Further congressional action is needed.
Farm Bill: Advance a bipartisan Farm Bill that improves the farm safety net, expands conservation opportunities, and supports agricultural trade.
Status: House passed its Farm Bill; Senate Agriculture Committee advanced its version. Full congressional approval is still needed.
International Trade: Protect and strengthen trade relationships that will provide reliable markets for Illinois corn, through agreements like the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
Status: USMCA’s six-year review is underway, with negotiations among the three countries ongoing.
Transportation Infrastructure and WRDA: Advance the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026 and investments in inland waterways, including lock and dam improvements that are critical to moving Illinois corn to domestic and international markets.
Status: House passed its version of WRDA 2026; Senate Environment and Public Works Committee advanced its version. Final passage is still needed.

“Illinois farmers need policies that support their ability to compete, grow their business, and find new opportunities for their products,” said Mark Bunselmeyer, IL Corn Growers Association President and Maroa, IL farmer. Congress has several opportunities to make meaningful progress on issues directly affecting our industry, including year-round E15, a strong Farm Bill, and policies that strengthen our export markets. We need lawmakers to work together to deliver results that strengthen Illinois agriculture.”

As the current Congress approaches the end of its session, IL Corn will continue working with lawmakers to advance policies that strengthen Illinois agriculture and support the state’s corn farmers.

Why is Congress being asked to take action now?
Congress is approaching the end of its current session, with several legislative priorities still awaiting final approval. Action on year-round E15, the Farm Bill, international trade, and transportation infrastructure could provide important support for Illinois corn farmers and agricultural businesses.
What is the current status of year-round E15 legislation?
The House passed standalone year-round E15 legislation in May 2026, and the Senate Agriculture Committee advanced year-round E15 provisions as part of its Farm Bill in September. Additional congressional action is needed to expand nationwide access.
Why do Illinois corn farmers need a new Farm Bill?
A new Farm Bill would provide an opportunity to strengthen the farm safety net, expand conservation opportunities, and support agricultural trade. These policies help farmers manage risk, protect their operations, and remain competitive in domestic and international markets.
Why is the USMCA review important to Illinois corn farmers?
The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) supports important agricultural trade relationships with two of the largest markets for U.S. agricultural products. Its six-year review provides an opportunity to strengthen trade relationships and maintain reliable markets for Illinois corn.
How does transportation infrastructure affect Illinois corn farmers?
Illinois corn depends on an extensive transportation network to reach domestic and international customers. Investments in inland waterways, locks, and dams help maintain efficient transportation, reduce bottlenecks, and keep agricultural products moving to market.