HB 4857

Abstract

Creates the Distressed Farmers Act. Provides that the Department of Agriculture shall fund and administer programs to address the needs of distressed farmers. Provides for a tax credit for distressed farmers. Amends The Illinois Income Tax Act. Provides that for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, each taxpayer who is a distressed farmer and who incurs qualified farming expenses during the taxable year is entitled to a tax credit in an amount equal to 100% of those qualified farming expenses, not to exceed $50,000 per taxpayer in any taxable year. Provides that qualified farming expenses include: (1) repairing tractors, trailers, and other vehicles; (2) purchasing, repairing, or constructing greenhouses and other covers for agricultural products; (3) purchasing tractors with tillers and other attachments; and (4) planting or harvesting food that will be delivered to an underserved community.