LOMBARD, Ill. — The Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) opened their new office in Lombard with a soiree that also served to honor a pair of Illinois lawmakers for their contributions to the state’s agriculture sector. During the June 2 gathering at their new Chicagoland office, ISA presented its Legislative Champion Awards to Illinois State Senator Patrick Joyce and Illinois State Representative Eva-Dina Delgado. The state lawmakers were recognized for going above and beyond in their advocacy efforts for Illinois soybean farmers, especially their efforts sponsoring and passing B20 legislation in this unique legislative session.

According to an ISA news release, the legislation transitioned the sales tax exemption from 10 percent biodiesel blends to 19 percent, which will not only significantly enhance the environmental benefits of biodiesel, but also lead to strengthened demand for the Illinois-grown renewable fuel by about 125 million gallons. Joyce and Delgado’s efforts were pivotal to the success of the legislation.

“This hard-won victory is the result of ISG’s tireless advocacy, and the support of sponsor Senator Patrick Joyce who is working to present a viable and immediate solution to combat climate change from carbon emissions in the transportation sector,” said ISA Chairman, Steve Pitstick. 

The Lombard office replaces the recently shuttered ISA office in downtown Chicago. 

“The Lombard Office, selected for better accessibility to Chicagoland legislators, was chosen to continue our policy efforts just like this new B20 legislation,” said ISA Chairman Steve Pitstick. “This new location sets us up well to enact the change that Illinois farmers want and need.”

ISA Government Relations Chair Brad Daugherty added: “It’s the perfect locale to host meetings and guests to further ISA’s policy efforts.”

 A need for more building space is also why the ISA will relocate its main office this fall to a new building located at 1108 Trinity Lane in Bloomington. ISA communications director Claire Weinzierl said that the new building will encompass 25,168 square feet (including tenant space) and feature amenities such as a full kitchen, laundry, and an outdoor patio with covered seating and grilling area. Conference rooms will include a 3,108 square foot board room, two conference rooms of 129-137 square feet and another conference room of 398 square feet.

Weinzierl said the new locations are strategic strides toward the future of ISA, and an investment that furthers checkoff and membership priorities. The locations will enable ISA to foster collaborative partnerships, grow its team of highly skilled professionals, and cultivate opportunities that yield more potential for Illinois farmers, according to an ISA news release.