TAYLORVILLE, Ill. — As tariffs and ongoing economic uncertainty continue to strain Illinois farmers, Governor JB Pritzker has signed a new executive order aimed at providing relief and long-term stability to the state’s agriculture community.
With the federal trade war showing no signs of ending, the state is stepping in to offer what help it can. “Illinois can’t change federal trade policy,” Pritzker said, “but we can give farmers the resources they need to stay afloat and help them find new markets.”
Local farmers like Bill Curtin of Taylorville said the situation has grown dire. “Farmers are losing somewhere around $0.90 a bushel,” he explained. His family has worked the same land since the 1960s, but recent years have been among the toughest.
According to the Illinois Department of Agriculture, soybean farmers are losing between $100 and $200 per acre, with similar struggles affecting livestock and other row crops. Agriculture Director Jerry Costello blamed ongoing trade conflicts for the economic instability. “These trade policies have wreaked economic havoc in our ag communities,” he said. “Farmers deserve better than what they’re receiving from our federal government.”
What the Executive Order Does
Pritzker’s new order takes a two-part approach:
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It directs the state to identify and promote new domestic markets for Illinois agricultural products.
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It expands funding for the Farm Family Resource Initiative, which offers mental health support for farmers and their families.
While the plan won’t immediately increase farmers’ profits, Pritzker said it’s a step toward keeping operations stable until trade policy improves. “They want willing buyers, they want stability — and Illinois is on their side,” he said.
Costello added that maintaining and building new relationships is crucial for the future. “We can’t control federal trade, but we can strengthen connections that support our farmers,” he said.
Mental Health Support for Farmers
A key part of the initiative focuses on mental health. Farmers face suicide rates four times higher than the national average — even in typical years.
Anyone struggling can reach out to the Farm Family Resource Initiative hotline at 1-833-327-6767 for confidential assistance.
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