Sen. Sam McCann (R-Plainview) has filed legislation to place a referendum on the November 2018 ballot that would let voters decide whether the governor should continue naming a director of the state's Department of Agriculture or make it an elected position.
According to a press release from the Senator’s office, 12 states now have an elected director as head of agriculture. In Illinois, the job is an executive position in the governor’s cabinet with has no term limit.
The current office holder is Raymond Poe, whom Gov. Bruce Rauner appointed in November.
McCann said he believes the move would be a boon to the agriculture market in Illinois, according to the release.
“This idea certainly has its pros and cons, but I do believe it's worth exploring further, and that's why I filed this legislation.,” McCann said. “I think there is potential here, and I look forward to having a discussion about this through the legislative process, both with my colleagues in the Senate and House, as well as with stakeholders, farmers, and industry professionals as well.”
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