ILLINOIS — A new bill headed to the governor’s desk could transform how small poultry farms operate in Illinois — lifting long-standing restrictions and opening up local sales channels that were previously off-limits.
Dubbed the “chicken bill,” the measure increases the threshold for local poultry processing from 5,000 to 7,500 birds annually and allows eligible farmers to sell directly at farmers markets, through delivery, and at roadside stands — not just from their farms.
What the Bill Changes for Small Farmers
Previously, Illinois law required farmers to either process birds under tight federal inspection or remain under a limited exemption that allowed very few direct sales. Under the new law:
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Farmers raising and processing fewer than 7,500 birds annually will be exempt from state and federal inspection
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They can sell poultry off-site, including:
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Farmers markets
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Roadside stands
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Local delivery
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They must still meet labeling and safety rules, including:
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Temperature control
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Leak-proof packaging
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Labels with farm name, weight, date, and a disclaimer if the product is not USDA-inspected
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Broad Support Across Political Lines
The bill, House Bill 2196, passed 116-0 in the House and unanimously in the Senate on May 22. It was co-sponsored by Sen. Sally Turner (R-Beason) and Rep. Charlie Meier (R-Okawville).
“This is important for our small farmers to get their product to the community,” Turner said.
“They’re fresh, and you’re getting a good, healthy product,” added Meier, who is a farmer himself.
Health & Safety Still A Priority
Despite some pushback from public health groups, the final legislation includes clear food safety guidelines. DuPage County’s interim health director Michael Desmedt acknowledged that public health concerns were heard and reflected in the revised version.
Farmers and Advocates Welcome the Move
Ed Dubrick, poultry farmer and organizer with the Illinois Stewardship Alliance, helped push for the bill after hearing frustrations from small farmers who felt boxed in by old regulations.
“This gives them the opportunity to double their production and their profits on their farms,” Dubrick said.
“They’re not going to put their name, their reputation, their business on the line unless it’s safe.”
Anna Morrell, co-owner of The Little Farm at Weldon Springs in Clinton, said the bill would make her and her husband’s small poultry business, launched in 2020, more viable.
Are you a supporter of small farms and local meat?
Do you buy poultry at your local market or plan to start?
Tell us how this bill could change your food choices at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com!
