Harper Passes Legislation to Back Minority Farmers

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – To further support minority farmers, state Rep. Sonya Harper, D-Chicago, passed legislation that would create a group to propose solutions to the adversities faced by minority farmers.

“The inequities faced by minority farmers affect the food systems, health and economy of vulnerable communities,” said Harper. “This bill will help address adversities faced by farmers from minority communities, and therefore address the negative outcomes these adversities create.”

House Bill 5201 will establish the Agriculture Equity Commission to increase outreach to socially disadvantaged farmers, study the industry and provide recommendations concerning equity for farmers from minority communities. The commission will include academics, policy experts and legislators and will reflect the representation of socially disadvantaged communities.

“Farming has always played an integral role in Illinois’ economy and culture. The Agriculture Equity Commission is an important first step in ensuring this industry is open for everyone to partake and succeed in,” said Harper. “I thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for supporting this bill and for supporting minority farmers across the state.”

House Bill 5201 passed the House with bipartisan support, and now heads to the Senate for consideration.