On a separate state legislative front, Illinois Farm Bureau was successful in preventing the passage of proposed extensive regulations around wetlands in the state. Those regulations were included in SB 771, the Wetlands Protection Act, and had evolved from two previous bill iterations.

IFB was opposed to concepts outlined in the draft bill and built a strong coalition of opposition from a variety of industries in addition to agriculture. That unified opposition combined with the grassroots strength of Illinois Farm Bureau ultimately led to defeating the bill this session.

Over 600 IFB members responded to an April 10 Action Request connected to the bill, making clear to Illinois State Senate members their opposition and the burden the bill would bring to their farms and businesses.

THANK YOU to the hundreds of members who responded to the Action Request on this vital issue, which carries high stakes for the future of private property rights and environmental regulations in our state. Your advocacy had a direct impact on the bill’s failed path through the statehouse.

We fully expect this issue to arise again in Springfield, so please continue to remain engaged and be prepared to again answer the call to fight this kind of punitive legislation.