Turner Measure Designates Soybean as State Bean

Illinois will soon have an official state bean, as a new law designating the soybean for that honor takes effect Jan. 1. The measure was championed by State Senator Doris Turner of Springfield.

“Our state’s symbols highlight the important pieces that make Illinois what it is,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “The soybean powers our farms, fuels our economy and feeds our future.”

Turner’s law formally designates the soybean as the official state bean of Illinois, recognizing the crop’s role in the state’s agricultural identity and economy.

According to the Illinois Soybean Association, Illinois is the nation’s top soybean-producing state. As of 2021, Illinois farmers averaged 64 bushels per acre, producing more than 672 million bushels statewide. Illinois soybeans are exported to 82 countries and are used in a wide range of products.

Soybeans play a central role in Illinois agriculture, commonly rotated with corn to support soil health and long-term productivity. Beyond food and livestock feed, soybeans are used in products such as biodiesel, industrial oils, and consumer goods, making them a key contributor to both rural communities and the broader state economy.

“Illinois is the largest soybean producing state, and that deserves recognition,” said Turner. “Without our soybean farmers, we wouldn’t have the food supply, sustainable biodiesel and more. Their hard work does not go unnoticed.”

House Bill 4439 takes effect Jan. 1.