HR1283 99TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR1283 LRB099 22005 MST 49142 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The State of Illinois has a long history of producing agricultural products and innovation in the agricultural field; and

WHEREAS, Illinois is a leading producer of corn, soybeans, and swine, and because of its favorable climate and soil, produces many other agricultural items such as fruits and vegetables, livestock, and even Christmas trees; and

WHEREAS, Illinois' 74,300 farms cover approximately 27 million acres and have an average size of 358 acres; they produce not only crops and raise livestock, but also provide many hunting, fishing, and other outdoor opportunities; and

WHEREAS, Illinois' agricultural commodities generate over $19 billion annually in addition to billions more in farm machinery, agricultural real estate, and production; and

WHEREAS, The Illinois food industry employs almost one million people who transport, market, and process agricultural products for use to the entire world; and

WHEREAS, Illinois' transportation infrastructure allows the export of over $8.2 billion worth of agricultural goods to the world, making it third in the nation; and

WHEREAS, Illinois farmers have to meet many various requirements, and possess numerous licenses and permits to sell goods, operate machinery, and properly care for their crops, animals, and land; and

WHEREAS, These various requirements are mandated to be renewed at different times of the year; and

WHEREAS, During the current fiscal crisis, many State agencies are reducing services and not notifying license holders of pending expirations in order to save money; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-NINTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we urge the Illinois Commerce Commission, the Illinois Secretary of State, the Illinois Department of Agriculture, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, and any other agencies or entities that they see fit, to work together to synchronize the expiration and renewal dates of all State-mandated licenses, permits, and other requirements necessary to successfully operate a farm in the State of Illinois; and be it further

RESOLVED, That suitable copies be delivered to Secretary of State Jesse White, Agriculture Director Raymond Poe, Commerce Commission Chairman Brien Sheahan, and Natural Resources Director Wayne Rosenthal.