Briel Pro-Farm Bill Becomes Law

OTTAWA, Ill. – Working to relieve a universal inconvenience Illinois farmers face during harvesting periods, a new law spearheaded by state Rep. Amy “Murri” Briel, D-Ottawa, will expand the lawful use of large-scale farm equipment and extend the period for commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) for farm-related industries.

“It’s very common for farms across the state to employ temporary help during planting and harvesting season, and we want to ensure these workers are able to operate equipment critical to the farm’s success,” said Briel. “By extending the license availability to operate farm equipment another 30 days, we won’t be taking away these crucial tools halfway through their harvesting seasons.”

Past law barred temporary workers from utilizing CDL licenses to continue using large-scale farm equipment, like combines and irrigation machinery, through the completion of harvest season. Senate Bill 849 expands CDL license availability for any farm-related service from 180 days to 210 days in any 12-month period, allowing temporary farm workers to operate large- scale equipment through a full season of planting and harvesting.

“I’m pleased to work on legislation that will directly uplift my community of farm families — and those statewide — who have been integral to sustaining Illinois’ food supply for generations,” said Briel. “Expanding this license availability is essential to maintain the efficiency and prosperity of Illinois farms.”

Senate Bill 849 was signed into law and will go into effect January 1 of next year.