IL HB2879

Increases inspection fees for commercial fertilizers and custom mixes from $0.25 per ton to $1 per ton, effective January 1, 2012.

Raises the portion of inspection fees deposited into the Fertilizer Control Fund from one-half to seven-eighths of the $1 per ton fee.

Requires at least 50% of funds appropriated to the fertilizer research and education program be used for projects designed to avoid or reduce water pollution from agricultural fertilizer use.

Expands the Fertilizer Research and Education Council from 9 to 15 members, adding representatives from soil and water conservation districts and environmental organizations focused on reducing water pollution from fertilizer.

Prohibits funds deposited in the Fertilizer Control Fund for the research and education program from being transferred to the General Revenue Fund.