HB 3501

Abstract

Creates the Black Farmer Restoration Program Act. Creates the Black Farmer Restoration Program. Provides that the Department of Agriculture shall establish the Black Farmer Restoration Fund to purchase farmland on the open market and grant it to eligible individuals. Establishes requirements and limitations for the Program. Establishes the Farm Conservation Corps to provide training in an on-field environment for socially disadvantaged residents. Establishes the Equity Commission to study historical and continuing discrimination by the Department against Black farmers and ranchers that is fostered or perpetuated by the laws, rules, policies, or practices of the Department and to recommend actions to end the systematic disparities in treatment of Black farmers and ranchers, particularly by the Department. Provides for the collection and reporting of specified data regarding the Program and related conditions. Defines terms. Effective immediately. House Committee Amendment No. 1 Adds reference to: 30 ILCS 105/5.970 new Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Makes changes to the provisions creating the Black Farmer Restoration Fund. Makes a corresponding change in the State Finance Act. Corrects typographical and formatting errors.