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Bill

SB 2372

FARMLAND TRANSITION

104th Regular Session Introduced by Neil Anderson and 20 co-sponsors

Illinois creates a farmland transition program effective January 2026 to facilitate agricultural land succession between generations and support beginning farmer acquisition of viable operations.

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Bill Summary · SB 2372

Legislative bill overview

SB 2372 establishes a farmland transition program in Illinois designed to facilitate the transfer of agricultural land between generations and to new farmers. The bill creates legal and financial mechanisms to support succession planning and help beginning farmers acquire viable farmland operations. It becomes effective January 1, 2026.

Why is this important

Illinois faces an aging farmer demographic, with the average age of farmers exceeding 55 years old, creating urgency around land succession. The bill addresses barriers that prevent young or beginning farmers from accessing affordable farmland, which is critical for maintaining agricultural viability and rural economic stability. Without structured transition pathways, productive farmland risks being sold to non-agricultural interests or consolidated into larger operations, potentially reducing family farm opportunities.

Potential points of contention

  • Program funding and costs: The bill's fiscal impact on the state budget and whether dedicated funding mechanisms exist to support transition incentives or assistance programs
  • Property rights and restrictions: Concerns from current landowners about potential limitations on their ability to sell farmland freely or at market rates
  • Definition of "beginning farmer": Disputes over eligibility criteria—age, experience level, income thresholds—and whether these definitions fairly balance opportunity with program sustainability

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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