IL HB5396

Establishes the Healthy Soils Task Force within the Illinois Department of Agriculture, consisting of 17 voting members (including farmers, academic experts, and representatives from environmental and agricultural organizations) plus 4 non-voting legislative members appointed by the Governor and legislative leaders.

Requires the Task Force to develop a comprehensive healthy soils initiative and action plan focused on rebuilding soil carbon, enhancing water quality, capturing carbon, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and expanding wildlife habitats.

Directs the Task Force to examine financial incentives for farmers, technical assistance programs, demonstration projects, and opportunities to leverage federal conservation funding such as the USDA Regional Conservation Partnership Program.

Mandates submission of a report with findings and recommendations to the Governor and General Assembly by December 31, 2027, with the Task Force dissolving and the Act repealing on July 1, 2028.

Requires appointments within 60 days of the Act's effective date and the first meeting within 90 days, with the Department of Agriculture providing administrative support.