Illinois Farmers Benefit from Expanded On-Farm Poultry Processing Law
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Springfield, IL – Illinois small-scale farmers received a notable boost this week with the enactment of House Bill 2196, a new law designed to expand opportunities for on-farm poultry processing. the legislation, signed into law recently, modernizes state regulations, aligning them more closely with federal standards and those of neighboring states, and is expected to revitalize local food production.
Key Provisions of HB2196
Championed by Senator sally Turner (R-Beason) and Representative Charlie Meier (R-Okawville), HB2196 introduces several key changes. The annual limit for on-farm poultry processing has been increased from 5,000 to 7,500 birds. Direct-to-consumer sales at farmers markets are now permitted, providing farmers with a more direct route to market. Critically, the law also eliminates a previous 30-day ownership requirement for individuals processing poultry or livestock for personal or cultural use.
“This is a transformative win for our members,” stated Liz moran Stelk,executive director of the Illinois Stewardship Alliance. “It gives small farmers the tools they need to succeed while respecting food safety and community traditions.”
Did You Know? The USDA estimates that small and mid-sized farms account for 89% of all U.S. farms, but only 25% of total agricultural sales (USDA Economic Research Service).
Impact on Local Farmers
the new law addresses a critical gap in processing availability for smaller producers. bethany Salisbury of Saratoga Homestead in Henry, Illinois, highlighted the challenges faced by farmers. “Last year, the only processor in the state offering duck processing closed. The only processor offering quail processing stopped offering that service. The timely passage of this law will allow me to continue producing quail, waterfowl, and other poultry with safe, on-farm processing to continue meeting the needs of consumers in my community.”
Anna Morrell of The Little Farm at Weldon Springs in dewitt County echoed this sentiment. “Passing this law opens the door to new possibilities for our business. We will be able to scale production up or down as we need, with fewer constraints, less overhead and more flexibility. This bill is a fantastic prospect for small farmers.”
Safeguards and Bipartisan Support
HB2196 garnered bipartisan support in both the Illinois house and Senate, demonstrating a broad consensus on the need for reform. The legislation incorporates essential public health safeguards, including requirements for safe handling labels, leakproof packaging, and strict temperature controls. These measures align with best practices outlined by the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) of the USDA (FSIS).
Pro tip: Farmers considering on-farm processing should familiarize themselves with the specific requirements outlined in HB2196 and consult with the Illinois Department of agriculture for guidance.
| Provision | Previous Regulation | New Regulation (HB2196) |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Poultry Processing Limit | 5,000 birds | 7,500 birds |
| Direct-to-Consumer Sales | restricted | Permitted at Farmers Markets |
| Ownership Requirement | 30-day minimum | Eliminated for personal/cultural use |
“This is about common-sense reform that supports local food, local economies, and local farmers,” Stelk emphasized. “We thank all our members, allies, and legislative champions who made this possible.”
What challenges do you think small farmers will still face,even with these new regulations in place? How can communities further support local poultry producers?
The Growing Demand for Local Food
The passage of HB2196 reflects a broader national trend towards increased consumer demand for locally sourced food. Consumers are increasingly interested in knowing where their food comes from and supporting sustainable agricultural practices. This demand is driving innovation in local food systems and creating new opportunities for small farmers. The COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the importance of resilient local food supply chains, as disruptions to global supply chains impacted food availability.
Frequently Asked Questions about Illinois Poultry Processing
- What is HB2196? HB2196 is a new Illinois law that expands opportunities for on-farm poultry processing for small-scale farmers.
- How does HB2196 benefit farmers? It increases processing limits, allows direct-to-consumer sales, and removes ownership restrictions.
- are there safety regulations associated with on-farm processing? Yes, the law includes requirements for safe handling, packaging, and temperature control.
- Where can I find the full text of HB2196? The full bill can be found at https://ilga.gov/Legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=2196.
- What is the Illinois Stewardship Alliance? The Illinois Stewardship Alliance is an organization that advocates for local food and farming. You can learn more at https://ilstewards.org/.
disclaimer: This article provides general facts and should not be considered legal or agricultural advice. consult with relevant professionals for specific guidance.
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