Sorensen Leads Illinois Colleagues in Calling Out Mass Layoffs at Peoria Ag Lab

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) led 14 of his Illinois colleagues, including Senators Durbin and Duckworth, calling on the administration to refrain from their efforts to reduce the Peoria Ag Lab workforce. The letter warns Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and Dr. Rosalind James, Midwest Area Director of the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service, that such a move would undermine the lab’s ability to support farmers, strengthen food security, and drive economic growth.  

“While the recent Merit System Protection Board order to reinstate fired probationary workers at the Peoria Ag Lab is welcome, it is only temporary. Any permanent cuts would upend the lives of hardworking public servants in our community and putting vital agricultural research at risk,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “Our farmers greatly benefit from the lab’s cutting-edge research to protect crops from pests, disease, and extreme weather conditions. In leading this letter with my in-state colleagues, we urge Secretary Rollins and Dr. James to retain these essential workers.”

Famous for discovering the method to mass produce penicillin, the Peoria Ag Lab continues to be at the forefront in developing value-added agricultural products for 78 years. Their research ensures that the American food supply remains safe, nutritious, and benefits consumers nationwide.  

Additionally, the lab is the largest federal employer in the Greater Peoria area and layoffs will have an immediate impact on the regional economy. The dismissal of brilliant lab technicians, research scientists, and plant pathologists threatens to cripple an incredible institution and the regional economy. 

Read the full letter HERE.