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Pritzker directs agencies to boost domestic markets and mental health support for Illinois ag

The governor of Illinois has issued an executive order declaring an agricultural export crisis.

J.B. Pritzker signed an order on Wednesday directing state agencies to take immediate action to enhance domestic markets for agricultural commodities and continue investment in mental health support for farm families. ​

Pritzker says the move is a result of the damaging impacts of the Trump administration’s tariffs and trade policies. 

He says collapsed soybean exports, rising production costs, and recent moves to impact cattle markets all require the state to step in to help protect family farms.

Through the order, the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) and Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) will coordinate efforts to promote, develop, and expand domestic markets for agricultural commodities.

IDOA will continue to invest in the Farm Family Resource Initiative, providing mental health resources, the 833-FARM – SOS helpline, and no-cost counseling for farm families.