Bill > HB2475

This bill creates the Natural Resources and Agricultural Legacy Act to establish a special fund in the Illinois State treasury managed by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for preserving open space and farmland. The bill creates the Illinois Natural Resources and Agricultural Legacy Fund, which will provide grants to qualified easement holders for purchasing conservation easements on qualified land, covering acquisition costs, and supporting ecological management activities. The fund will be financed through appropriations, bond proceeds, and donations, with specific priorities including preventing farmland fragmentation, supporting historically underserved farmers, protecting biodiversity, and leveraging local, federal, and private funding. A Legacy Act Technical Advisory Committee will be established to provide recommendations on grant program development, consisting of representatives from agriculture, farming, conservation organizations, educational institutions, and land use planning. The bill limits the percentage of funds that can be used for administrative costs and sets a cap on the total acres of conservation easements that can be purchased annually. The legislation aims to incentivize private landowners to voluntarily conserve open spaces and farmland at risk of development while enhancing environmental quality, agricultural production, and the overall ecological health of Illinois.

Budget and Finance

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=2475&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104