Illinois declares soybean as official state bean

Source: Illinois Soybean Association news release

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. -- The Illinois Legislature passed HB 4439 which designates the soybean as Illinois' official state bean.

Soybean production in Illinois is estimated at $8.2 billion per year. Image credit - Mark Stebnicki

HB 4439 recognizes the importance of soybeans to the state's economy and agricultural heritage. Illinois is the No. 1 soybean-producing state in the nation with over 10 million acres of soybeans planted each year, accounting for 16 percent of the total U.S. soy production. HB 4439 acknowledges the contribution of the 43,000 hardworking soybean farmers across the state who feed and fuel the world.

"I would like to extend our gratitude to Representative Matt Hanson and the Illinois General Assembly for officially designating the soybean as the state bean of Illinois. This bill helps raise awareness of the importance of soybeans to our state's economy and agricultural sector," said Andrew Larson, Director of Government Relations & Strategy at the Illinois Soybean Association. "We thank Representative Hanson for his work highlighting the importance Illinois farmers play in our state."

HB 4439 will be sent to the Governor's office to await his signature.