Illinois State Rep. Dennis Tipsword Jr. (R-Pontiac)
State Government: Agencies/Departments/Divisions | Elected State Legislators
Recent News About Illinois State Rep. Dennis Tipsword Jr. (R-Pontiac)
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Ending Corruption Requires Holding Elected Officials Accountable
In a recent statement, Rep. Tipsword, a member of the House Ethics and Elections Committee, emphasized the importance of holding elected officials accountable to combat public corruption in Illinois. He highlighted that several initiatives aimed at maintaining the highest ethical standards for officials were put forward this spring but faced obstruction from the majority party."If we want to earn the trust of our residents, we have to end public corruption in Illinois. Let’s hold all elected officials to the highest ethical standards so we can stop bad behavior BEFORE it...
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Hundreds of Bills Advance, A Few Victories, Pro-Life/Pro Second Amendment Rallies, and More
In legislative news from the week of April 15, a significant number of bills sponsored by House Democrats advanced, outnumbering those from Republicans that progressed for consideration. Despite this, there were still notable victories for various causes. Representative Keicher and Representative LaHa championed Human Trafficking Initiatives, while efforts were made to address teacher shortages, enhance school safety, protect children, and introduce stiffer penalties for obstructing public highways.Looking ahead, the focus will shift to the upcoming spring session in...
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This Day in History: The Illinois Enabling Act
On April 18, 1818, the Illinois Enabling Act was passed in Congress. The Act, which provided for the organization of a state government, established the northern boundary of Illinois, and created a permanent school fund from a portion of public land sales proceeds.This significant event in history laid the foundation for the development and governance of the state of Illinois. The Act's provisions have had a lasting impact on the state's administrative structure and educational system.As we commemorate this day in history, let us reflect on the words of the past and the...
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Capitol Rally for 2nd Amendment Rights
Gun owners from across the state gathered in Springfield today for a rally in support of Second Amendment rights. State officials, including a prominent figure, stood in solidarity with the attendees in the Capitol.The event aimed to emphasize the significance of upholding the Constitutional right to bear arms. One of the organizers expressed, "Today, gun owners from across the state joined us in Springfield to raise their voices for the protection of Second Amendment rights."The dedication and commitment of the participants were evident as they made their voices heard...
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Legislation Attacks Local Control of Residential Zoning
The Single-Family Zoning Ban Act has sparked controversy as it aims to limit the authority of local governments over residential zoning regulations. According to a report by The Caucus Blog, the proposed legislation is the second of its kind introduced during the spring session with the intention of giving the state more control over zoning decisions.The move has raised concerns among local officials and residents who fear that such measures could undermine the autonomy of municipalities in determining their own zoning policies. The push for greater state control over...
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Honoring Public Safety Telecommunicators During National Public Safety Telecommunicator Week
Public safety telecommunicators are being recognized and thanked for their hard work and dedication during National Public Safety Telecommunicator Week. This week-long event aims to honor those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep communities safe.In a statement, an anonymous source expressed gratitude to public safety telecommunicators, saying, "Thank you for all that you do!"These professionals play a crucial role in emergency response systems, working around the clock to coordinate and dispatch resources to those in need. Their commitment to public safety...
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Cashless Bail Fail, Ethics Reform, Revenue Growth, and More
In recent news from Illinois, a tragic incident has sparked a call for action within the law enforcement community. Following the reckless homicide death of DeKalb County Sheriff’s Deputy Christina Musil, questions have been raised about the effectiveness of current legislation. Expressing frustration and grief, an unidentified individual highlighted the impact of the loss, stating, "An officer is dead. She will never return to her family. Their lives have ALL been shattered and others in the community have been endangered. When will enough be enough?"Furthermore,...
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After 6 Months of SAFE-T Act, Illinois Families LESS Safe
Illinois residents are feeling the negative impacts of the SAFE-T Act, as highlighted by Rep. Tipsword in a recent discussion with the Center Square. The legislation, which includes cashless bail provisions, has left families in the state feeling anything but safe. In response to this, Rep. Tipsword and other House Republicans are pushing for new legislation to address the issues caused by the implementation of the SAFE-T Act.
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Grants Available for Police Vehicle, Officer Body Cameras
Illinois police agencies are being offered a valuable opportunity to enhance their law enforcement capabilities through grants for police vehicle and officer body cameras. The North Central Illinois Council of Governments has announced the availability of grants for various law enforcement equipment and training, with an application deadline of May 3, 2024.The grants are intended for municipalities, counties, park districts, public universities, and all units of Illinois local government. Eligible purchases include in-car video cameras for use in law enforcement vehicles,...
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Current Safe-T-Act Provisions Responsible for Release of Man Charged with Reckless Homicide in Deputy’s Death
Rep. Dennis Tipsword expressed grave concerns today regarding the release of an individual charged with reckless homicide and DUI in the tragic death of Dekalb County Sheriff’s Deputy Christina Musil. Tipsword, a 30-year law enforcement officer, highlighted that the man in question was released under the provisions of the current “Safe-T-Act”.“An officer is dead. She will never return to her family. Their lives have ALL been shattered; because Illinois law currently dictates disastrous release without bail policies, the person charged in her death is already back out on...
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Illinois House Republicans Express Frustration Over Committee Deadlines and Blocked Bills
Illinois House Republicans expressed frustration over committee deadlines and blocked bills this week. The scheduled deadline for House members to move bills out of House Committees was met with disappointment as the Democrats who control the chamber decided to take the day off, canceling the session.An unnamed Republican House member voiced their frustration, stating, "I know the majority party routinely advances large numbers of their own bills out of committee while ensuring our bills are blocked from consideration. I know it…but I will never get used to the...
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Springfield Action Live: Stay Updated with House Bills Debate
Springfield, Apr 3 2024 - The bustling city of Springfield is set to see a flurry of activities this week as the committee deadline for substantive House Bills approaches. In a statement, an official confirmed, "We are back in Springfield this week and expecting a busy few days ahead as we approach the committee deadline for substantive House Bills."For those eager to stay informed and witness the legislative process in action, an official announcement declared, "You can follow along live with floor debate and committee action all week at:...
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Honoring Our State Troopers
Today is Illinois State Police Trooper Day, a day dedicated to honoring the hard work and dedication of the Illinois State Police force. As stated on the official Illinois State Police Facebook page, the day is a celebration of 102 years of "Integrity, Service, Pride" exhibited by the state troopers.The post acknowledges the ongoing efforts of the state troopers, highlighting that "Our dedicated state troopers work every day to keep Illinois communities safe and ensure the well-being of residents and travelers alike."On this special day, Illinois residents are...
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If You’re Viewing the Eclipse, Don’t Forget Your Protective Glasses!
Residents gearing up for the upcoming solar eclipse on April 8 are being reminded to prioritize eye safety by using approved eclipse glasses. "The April 8 solar eclipse is almost here," emphasized officials, urging individuals to take necessary precautions. "Don’t forget to protect your eyes with approved eclipse glasses if you plan on watching the rare event."To facilitate access to these crucial eye protection tools, it has been announced that eclipse glasses are available at Rep. Tipsword’s office located at 305 W. Madison St. in Pontiac. Additionally, efforts have...
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Prayers for Rockford!
"Yesterday's heinous stabbing attacks in Rockford, Illinois, have left a community in mourning. Our hearts go out to the loved ones of those killed and to all those impacted by this senseless violence," a statement read. The plea continued, "Please keep the victims, witnesses, first responders, and the entire Rockford community in your prayers."
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Another Fatal Criminal Justice Error
The Prisoner Review Board failed Laterria Smith and her family, resulting in the death of an innocent 11-year-old boy. This tragic incident has sparked calls for reform and accountability in the criminal justice system.According to a report by WGN TV, the incident has led to the resignation of the Illinois Prisoner Review Board chair. The parolee allegedly killed the young boy and injured his mother, highlighting the devastating consequences of such failures in the system.In response to this heartbreaking event, a call for action has emerged. "We must do more to protect...
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Making Crime Illegal Again, Failing Tax Grade, Livingston County Farm Bureau Breakfast, and More
Illinois House Republican Leader Tony McCombie has expressed concerns over the consequences of the Democrats' SAFE-T Act, stating that it has emboldened criminals and demoralized law enforcement. In response, a new package of bills has been introduced by the House Republican Truth in Public Safety (TIPS) Working Group to restore law and order in communities. McCombie highlighted the importance of these bills, including HB 5120, HB 5121, and HB 5126, which aim to expand detainable offenses, enable the revocation of pre-trial release, and revert back to previous court...
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Cabello, Tipsword File Citizen Law Enforcement Act
House Republicans, led by Assistant Minority Leader John Cabello, have filed the Citizen Law Enforcement Act, HB 5790, in response to a controversial court decision regarding illegal immigrants and firearms rights. The decision to introduce this legislation stems from a recent ruling in the Northern District of Illinois that granted an illegal immigrant the right to carry firearms, causing confusion and concern among lawmakers.In a statement, Assistant Minority Leader John Cabello from Machesney Park expressed the need for clarity, stating, "The recent court decision...
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Tipsword, TIPS Working Group Unveil New Proposals to Restore Law and Order
Rep. Tipsword and his colleagues from the House Republican Truth in Public Safety, or TIPS, Working Group, have introduced a set of bills aimed at improving public safety and law enforcement recruitment efforts. Speaking about the need for change, Tipsword highlighted the consequences of the SAFE-T Act and emphasized the importance of restoring law and order in communities. He stated, “My Republican colleagues and I warned of the consequences when Democrats pushed their so-called SAFE-T Act, and, unfortunately, what we predicted has come to pass: criminals have been...
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Make Your Voice Heard: Primary Election Day in Illinois
Today is Primary Election Day in Illinois, as highlighted by The Caucus Blog, emphasizing the significance of the day. Voters in the state have the chance to participate in a variety of important races, ranging from presidential nominees to local government offices.The Caucus Blog states, "Today is Primary Election Day in Illinois." This statement serves as a reminder to all eligible voters in the state to exercise their right to vote and have a say in shaping the future of their community and country.Furthermore, The Caucus Blog notes, "Voters will not only have an...