Belt: Big Win For Local Chicken Farmers

SPRINGFIELD – Starting Jan. 1, 2026, a new law supported by State Senator Christopher Belt will allow smaller poultry producers increased access to the poultry market while still upholding basic food safety measures.

“Farmers markets are popping up all over Illinois. They are a great way to grow local businesses, and now we will allow smaller poultry producers in on that growth,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “This is a big win for family farms and local chicken producers.”

The new law increases the annual poultry processing limit from 5,000 to 7,500 birds and permits direct-to-consumer sales, including at farmers markets.

Through safeguards such as safe handling labels, leak-proof packaging and strict temperature requirements, the law strikes a balance between allowing smaller producers to operate freely and upholding food safety standards.

With farmers markets growing in popularity, Belt supported the legislation as a way to ensure small poultry farmers are not left out of the picture on local business.

House Bill 2196 goes into effect Jan. 1, 2026.

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