SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Mike Smiddy, D-Hillsdale, is leading the fight to protect agricultural education by supporting a measure that would continue funding for agricultural science and business lessons for Illinois students.
“Agriculture is the backbone of our state, and regardless of what young people go on to do, understanding the business that puts food on our tables is so important,” Smiddy said. “This measure recognizes the important role that farming, the livestock industry and so many related fields must continue to play in Illinois if we truly want our state to be a competitive place for business.”
Smiddy is sponsoring House Bill 6424, which would continue to set aside a small part of the state’s education budget for agricultural education. Currently, students in kindergarten through eighth grade receive lessons to help them develop an understanding of the science and business of agriculture, and an appreciation for the state’s natural resources. While the governor has proposed cutting agricultural education funding for the coming school year, Smiddy’s legislation would ensure local school districts continue to receive these funds, and protect agriculture internship opportunities for students.
“Helping our children explore the world around them is an investment in the future of our state,” Smiddy said. “Ensuring that young people have a knowledge and appreciation of our natural resources is particularly important in communities likes ours that help feed Illinois, but there is no part of our state where it makes sense to chip away at our children’s future by limiting their education.”
For more information, contact Smiddy’s full-time constituent service office at 309-848-9098 or email RepSmiddy@gmail.com.
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