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On-farm poultry processing bill advancing in Illinois

The deputy director of the Illinois Stewardship Alliance says a proposal gaining momentum in the state legislature would expand on-farm processing exemptions for poultry producers.

Liz Rupel tells Brownfield it would increase the state’s exemption from 5,000 chickens per year.

“We are asking for it to increase to 7,500 to process those chickens on farm with the right facility in place.”  She says, “We would love to see the ability for these farmers to sell those products at farmers markets.”

Currently only on-farm sales or deliveries from the farm are allowed.  She says it’s a step toward bringing Illinois regulations in line with surrounding states.

“Surrounding states have the ability to process 20,000 head, but with this bill we are kind of incrementally trying to meet where our neighbors are at,” she says.

Rupel says the move is a benefit to the state’s poultry industry and increases access to fresh protein for consumers. 

She says the legislation has passed the Illinois House and is expected to see bipartisan support in the Senate this week.

AUDIO: Liz Rupel – Illinois Stewardship Alliance