IL HR0667

Recognizes that disproportionately impacted urban communities and rural communities in Illinois face similar structural challenges including limited access to healthy food, healthcare, infrastructure investment, and capital for economic development.

Urges state agencies, local governments, educational institutions, and community organizations to pursue urban-rural partnerships connecting rural producers with urban communities through equitable food systems and workforce development.

Encourages education and technical assistance initiatives promoting agricultural literacy, food-system careers, and entrepreneurship, with focus on underserved urban and rural areas.

Supports policy frameworks to strengthen local food infrastructure, protect farmland, expand urban agriculture, and address food-access gaps in both urban and rural communities.

Calls on policymakers to reject urban-rural divisions and pursue collaborative, community-informed solutions for statewide food security and economic resilience.