Illinois designates soybean as official state bean

On January 6, the Illinois Legislature passed a bill designating the soybean as the official state bean. This move highlights the significance of soybeans to Illinois' economy and agricultural history. Illinois is the leading soybean-producing state in the U.S., with over 10 million acres planted annually. The state contributes 16% of the nation's total soybean production. The bill, HB 4439, will be sent to the Governor for approval. It acknowledges the efforts of 43,000 soybean farmers in Illinois.