IL HR0683

Illinois House Resolution urging U.S. Congress to expand the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program to include farming as an eligible career for loan forgiveness.

Cites that Illinois has over 72,000 farms generating over $19 billion annually, with 75% of state land dedicated to farming.

Notes that beginning farmers fell 20% between 2007 and 2012, and average farmer age rose to over 58 in 2012 from 49 in 1945, indicating a shortage of young farmers entering the profession.

Identifies student loan debt totaling over $1.5 trillion as a barrier preventing young people from pursuing farming careers.

Directs copies of the resolution to be sent to the President, U.S. Senate and House leadership, and all members of the Illinois Congressional Delegation.