Illinois Democratic lawmakers, advocates push for local food purchasing program for public facilities

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A broad coalition of advocacy groups is supporting legislation in Springfield to require Illinois agencies purchase food from local farmers and producers to serve in public facilities.

This comes as large out-of-state food companies often receive massive contracts from the state to provide mass produced meals for schools, universities, hospitals, prisons and veterans homes.

Less than 5% of the food consumed in Illinois comes from local farms despite farmland covering 75% of the state.

Advocates told reporters Tuesday that strong local food production and supply chains can send resources directly into local economies while boosting community health and access to fresh food. As of 2025, 72 institutions in 26 cities and counties are enrolled in the Good Food Purchasing Program. Experts said this has helped generate over $1 billion in annual food spending.

"This isn't just about policy. It's about people," said Heirloom Haus owner and farmer Serena Basham. "It's about stronger rural economies, healthier kids, and deeper connection between Illinois farmers and families. Let's take what's happening here in my town of Pawnee and make it possible for every community in Illinois."

The proposal could also require the Illinois Department of Agriculture to create a good food purchasing fund to combine federal, local and private funding to implement the local food program. Sponsors said the measure could increase transparency and accountability by providing public access to supplier information and procurement data as well.

"When we fail to invest in local food systems, we miss an opportunity to strengthen our local economies, allow food deserts to persist in too many communities, and leave families without nutritious high-quality food options," said Sen. Willie Preston (D-Chicago). "The Good Food Purchasing Law changes that by giving Illinois farmers a fair shot at public dollars and keeping tax dollars in our communities."

Senate Bill 2187 is currently assigned to the Senate Executive Committee. Preston told WAND News that he hopes to get the bill posted for a hearing next week, but he may need to ask for an extension with the Senate committee bill deadline date of March 21.

Rep. Sonya Harper (D-Chicago) is the lead sponsor of House Bill 3701. Her legislation was assigned to the House Agriculture & Conservation Committee Tuesday.