Taylorville, IL (WAND) – Governor JB Pritzker signed a new executive order Wednesday morning at a Taylorville farm. Many Illinois farmers are saying that rising costs and tariffs are threatening their livelihood.

“We’re not receiving the revenue we that we normally would receive, and farm bankruptcies are up and there’s a lot of good people having a hard time,” said farmer John Bartman.

Illinois agriculture exports roughly $13.5 billion in agricultural products annually. The state produces a massive portion of crops for the U.S. Illinois is No. 1 in soybean production, No. 2 in corn, No. 4 in pork and No. 10 in wheat. Bartman explains the decline in agriculture impacts multiple industries.

“Most people are cutting back on their expenses. That’s bad news for our farm equipment dealers right now. Farmers aren’t buying anything. That’s rolling out to the banks on Man Street, and even the waitresses are getting smaller tips,” Bartman said.

The executive order directs state agencies to boost local markets for crops and invest in mental health resources for farm families. The Illinois Department of Agriculture will invest in the Farm Family Resource Initiative, expanding no-cost mental health resources for farm families. For mental health resources, families can call 833-FARM.  

“To all farmers, Illinois is on your side. The U.S. government should be opening doors for you, not slamming it shut,” Pritzker said.  

Bartman said he is concerned about next year’s farming experience, and hopes the new order makes improvements.