“Policy’s Growing Role in Farming”

By Collin Cisco

Farmers have always needed to be experts in much more than just growing crops. Weather patterns, global markets and trade dynamics all play a part in determining profitability. But increasingly, public policy, especially legislation not explicitly labeled as agricultural, is shaping how farmers operate and what they earn.

At the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA), our Government Relations team works to ensure Illinois soybean growers are represented when policies are debated and decisions are made. Even policies that might seem far removed from agriculture can have a direct and lasting impact on farmers’ bottom lines.

Ripple Effects Beyond Agriculture

Although agriculture-specific legislation such as the Farm Bill often makes headlines, it is frequently broader policy decisions that affect farmers most. Infrastructure, energy, trade and environmental regulations all influence the cost of doing business and ultimately the price Illinois soybean farmers receive for their crop.

Take transportation as an example. The ability to move soybeans efficiently hinges on a reliable system of roads, railways, locks and dams. When infrastructure policy fails to prioritize repairs or introduces restrictions that slow movement, farmers pay the price through delivery delays, rising freight costs and reduced commodity prices at market.