(The Center Square) – Illinois Corn Growers Association President Mark Bunselmeyer says it is disappointing that the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry did not advance a farm bill on Thursday before the August recess.
The ICGA said in a statement that Illinois farmers and the agriculture industry are left with uncertainty as the current farm bill extension is set to expire on Sept. 30.
Bunselmeyer said the ICGA wants Congress to refine the legislation so it maintains the bipartisan support needed for passage.
BOST URGES STATE SUPPORT FOR FEDERAL EDUCATION TAX CREDIT
Illinois U.S. Rep. Mike Bost, R-Murphysboro, is calling on his home state to support the education tax credit created by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that was passed last year.
Bost said in a statement that every Illinois family and student deserves the opportunity to tailor education to their own needs, regardless of cost or zip code.
DURBIN BLASTS FAUCI CONTEMPT VOTE
Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin is criticizing his Republican colleagues for advancing a contempt of Congress resolution against former National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Director Anthony Fauci.
The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee voted 8-5 on Thursday to refer Fauci to the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Washington, D.C. Durbin said in a social media post it is a sad day when leaders use their authority in ways that cause harm, feed ego or damage individuals who have spent their lives in service to others.
Andrew Rice contributed to this story
STATE FAIR ANNOUNCES DISCOUNT DAYS
The Illinois State Fair has announced its theme and discount days for 2026. The Double the Fun parking promotion will be offered Aug. 13.
“TWOsday” August 18 features $2 admission for adults and $2 carnival rides. Veterans and Gold Star families receive free admission on Aug. 16.
Seniors and scouts in uniform get in free on Aug. 17.
First responders and health care workers with ID get in free on Aug. 21.
The fair runs from Aug. 13 through Aug. 23 at the state fairgrounds in Springfield.
