summary
Introduced
02/17/2026
02/17/2026
In Committee
02/19/2026
02/19/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
104th General Assembly
Bill Summary
States that it is of vital importance to protect Illinois farmland from irreversible conversion and fragmentation due to solar, industrial, and other large-scale developments. Affirms that farmland protection is consistent with and complementary to the goals of the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act and should be considered in clean-energy planning and implementation. Urges State agencies, local governments, and developers to prioritize renewable-energy and infrastructure projects on non-agricultural lands whenever practicable and to minimize impacts on prime farmland and farmland of statewide importance. Supports renewable-energy siting practices that protect soil health, drainage infrastructure, and long-term agricultural productivity, including appropriate decommissioning and land-restoration standards. Encourages transparent decision-making and meaningful community engagement to ensure that agricultural landowners and rural communities are protected from unintended long-term harm.
AI Summary
This joint resolution emphasizes the critical need to safeguard Illinois's fertile farmland from being permanently lost or broken up by large developments like solar farms, industrial facilities, and other projects. It acknowledges that protecting farmland aligns with and supports the goals of the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, a law aimed at promoting clean energy and fair job growth, and therefore, farmland protection should be a consideration in planning and carrying out clean energy initiatives. The resolution urges state agencies, local governments, and developers to prioritize building renewable energy and infrastructure projects on land that is not used for farming whenever possible, and to minimize any negative effects on prime farmland and land considered important for agriculture statewide. It also advocates for renewable energy projects to be located in ways that preserve soil health, drainage systems, and the ability to farm the land long-term, including proper procedures for dismantling projects and restoring the land afterward. Finally, it calls for open decision-making processes and genuine involvement of the community to ensure that farmers, landowners, and rural areas are protected from any unforeseen long-term damage.
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Referred to Rules Committee (on 02/19/2026)
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