July 1, 2026

Springfield, IL – Illinois Stewardship Alliance (ISA) welcomed the release of the Senate Farm Bill discussion draft as a step toward finally advancing long-overdue federal farm legislation, but said the proposal fails to address many of the economic challenges facing independent farmers, rural communities, and local food systems. 

“The Farm Bill shapes nearly every part of our food system, from what farmers can grow to what families can afford to eat,” said Liz Rupel, Deputy Director of Illinois Stewardship Alliance. “This discussion draft moves the conversation forward, but it doesn’t yet deliver the bold investments and reforms farmers and communities need.” 

While the discussion draft includes some positive steps, it misses key opportunities to strengthen competition in agricultural markets, curb excessive corporate concentration, expand local and regional food systems, and make larger investments in conservation and soil health. Without stronger reforms, many independent farmers will continue facing shrinking market opportunities, rising costs, and fewer choices for selling their products. 

“Farmers deserve markets that reward stewardship and hard work, not a system where a handful of corporations dictate prices and opportunities,” Rupel said. “Congress has a chance to build a Farm Bill that strengthens competition, invests in conservation, expands access to healthy food, and helps independent farmers succeed. That’s the kind of Farm Bill our communities need.” 

The current draft leaves many independent farmers with shrinking market opportunities, fewer choices, increasing financial pressure, and leaves eaters with fewer choices as well. ISA believes a strong Farm Bill should help level the playing field by promoting fair and competitive markets, expanding opportunities for beginning and mid-sized farmers, and ensuring public investments reach the producers who are stewarding our land and feeding our communities.

ISA urges members of Congress from both parties to strengthen the legislation by:

• expanding access to affordable healthy, locally produced food;
• increasing investments in farmer-led conservation and soil health;
• strengthening local and regional food systems and processing infrastructure;
• promoting fair and competitive agricultural markets; and
• creating more opportunities for beginning, diversified, and mid-sized farmers.

At a time when farmers are facing shrinking profits while a handful of corporations continue to consolidate control over seeds, inputs, processing, and grocery shelves, Congress should be using the Farm Bill to restore competition and strengthen independent agriculture.

“The Farm Bill should create opportunity for farmers while building healthier communities and healthier land,” Rupel said. “We look forward to working with members of Congress to strengthen this proposal and deliver a Farm Bill that truly serves farmers, eaters, and rural communities.” 

For additional information or an interview, please contact:
Nathan Ryder – Communications Coordinator