SPRINGFIELD – Legislation sponsored by State Senator Dave Koehler (D-Peoria) that protects the rights of those who choose to grow their own food passed out of the Senate Thursday.

“Many people across the state are trying to be more self-sufficient, a decision that shouldn’t be held back by red tape,” Koehler said. “Especially in light of hardships people are facing due to the pandemic, the option for residents to grow their own food to feed themselves and their families should be protected.”

This legislation creates the Vegetable Garden Protection Act, which establishes the right to grow a vegetable garden on private property, and prevents municipalities from prohibiting the cultivation of vegetable gardens absent any other concerns. Cities still maintain their ability to set regulations for gardens and garden structures based on building code ordinances and zoning. If signed into law, the legislation prevents municipalities from singling out gardens when regulations are established.

House Bill 633 passed the Senate with 46 votes.

###