IL SR0168

Illinois Senate recognizes farming as critical public service, with over 72,000 farms generating over $19 billion annually to the state economy.

Beginning farmers fell 20% between 2007 and 2012, and average farmer age rose to over 58 in 2012 from 49 in 1945, creating a shortage of young farmers.

Student loan debt exceeding $1.5 trillion creates a barrier for young people entering farming, with 66% of farmer-owned land requiring ownership transfer within 25 years.

Urges U.S. Congress to expand the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program to include farming as an applicable career for federal student loan forgiveness.

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