SPRINGFIELD – In honor of the 50th annual Illinois Agriculture Legislative Day, Senate Agriculture Chairman Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) connected with farm, agricultural commodity organizations and other diverse agriculture interest groups at the state Capitol Tuesday.

The day-long event, organized by the Illinois Department of Agriculture, provides groups the opportunity to speak with legislators about industry-related issues, as well as educate them about their own agri-business and role in the community.

Additionally, Illinois FFA members and agricultural instructors assemble and deliver baskets filled with agricultural products to legislators to remind lawmakers of the various aspects agriculture has in the lives of Illinoisans and the impacts their choices make on the world of agriculture.

“I try to be a voice for the agriculture industry in the General Assembly because of its importance to our state,” Bennett said. “It was rewarding to see these groups get involved and find their voice with elected officials.”

Senator Bennett, who is dedicated to helping farmers and the agriculture industry, is also working with IDOA on several measures this legislative session, including Senate Bill 3438 and Senate Bill 3448. Both pieces of legislation will be considered by the Illinois Senate Agriculture Committee Thursday.

Bennett also commemorated Illinois’ new director of agriculture. On Friday, Jerry Costello II was appointed to serve as the Director of IDOA by Governor JB Pritzker.

“I am committed to working with Director Costello and the department to work toward a sustainable agriculture industry,” Bennett said.