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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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...
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Gun Ban Opponents Appeal to SCOTUS, Professional Licensing Issues Addressed, Ag Week Celebrated, and More
Opponents of the Democrats’ firearms ban have formally appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court to have their voices heard against the Illinois law. The appeal papers were filed on Monday, March 11.In response to defenders of the ban asserting it as a reasonable limit on Second Amendment rights, critics and opponents point to recent federal court decisions on firearms rights. They also highlight flaws in the Illinois law, including inconsistencies in defining banned items.Meanwhile, a controversial law limiting constitutional challenges to Cook and Sangamon County was ruled...
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Tipsword Meets Normal FFA Students at Springfield FFA Seminar
Rep. Tipsword this week was able to meet with students from Normal FFA and Agriscience Program who participated in the FFA Agriculture Legislative Reception and Seminar at the Capitol. “These are dedicated young people, and I have no doubt that the future of Illinois Agriculture is bright,” Rep. Tipsword said.
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Celebrate International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day is a time to recognize the cultural, economic, and political accomplishments and contributions of women. Thank you to the trailblazing women who worked to achieve gender equality in the United States and across the globe!
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### Emissions Standards, Human Trafficking, Emerging Women Leaders at the Capitol, and More
Governor Pritzker's proposed budget for FY25 has stirred discussions, with analysts highlighting more than $2 billion in new State spending backed by $1 billion in new taxes. The budget includes funding for existing programs, notably healthcare initiatives for undocumented immigrants costing nearly $1 billion annually.In response to the growing issue of human trafficking, a bill package has been introduced to provide protections for victims in Illinois. House Republicans are actively working to combat this crisis and ensure the safety of individuals affected.Concerns...
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New Bills Fight Human Trafficking
In response to the escalating issue of human trafficking fueled by the open border crisis, House Republicans have introduced a comprehensive bill package aimed at combating this epidemic. The bills provide protections to individuals who have become victims of human trafficking.According to an unnamed source, "Our open border crisis has fueled human trafficking across the country and right here in Illinois." This statement underscores the urgency and seriousness of the situation at hand.Furthermore, the same source highlighted the proactive approach taken by House...
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SCOTUS Overturns Trump Ballot Disqualification
The U.S. Supreme Court today ruled unanimously that states cannot remove Presidential Candidate Donald Trump from primary ballots. This decision overturns a Colorado ruling that would have removed Trump from the ballot there and will likely end a similar case initiated last week here in Illinois.The ruling by the Supreme Court comes as a significant victory for the Trump campaign. In a statement following the decision, Trump's legal team expressed their satisfaction. "We are pleased with the Supreme Court's decision and believe it upholds the democratic process," said a...
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Tax Increases, Gas Prices, Veteran-owned Businesses, and More
The Illinois House is back in session in Springfield next week with a lot of work to do. As reported, the average price of gasohol in Illinois has surged 26.4 cents per gallon over the past month due to the transition to more expensive motor fuel mixtures. Market watchers attribute this increase to the annual switch from 'wintertime blends' to pricier fuel mixtures mandated in Chicago and St. Louis during warmer months.In addition to rising gas prices, Illinois residents are also facing potential tax hikes. Governor Pritzker's FY25 budget proposal includes nearly $1...
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IDOC Announces Hiring Events Across Illinois
IDOC is Hiring!In addition to the Illinois Department of Corrections applicant screening last month in Pontiac, IDOC is holding hiring events across the state in March and April. Find the full list of events at: https://www.illinois.gov/news/press-release.29672.htmlhttps://www.facebook.com/ilidoc/posts/pfbid02aSzct3qFqHX5vrxsUGfdMJaSTTD4LesRpm7JcTnFHidFAC7Zn8t9bwmntyLpHDJbl
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Is Unclaimed Cash Waiting for You?
""Illinois’ unclaimed property program, ICASH, is helping residents reunite with their missing money, including forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, stocks, dividends, or life insurance policies of deceased relatives. According to the program, one in four Illinois adults discover property to claim when they search, with an average claim of $1,000. The State Treasurer is currently holding over $5 billion in unclaimed funds, urging residents to check if some of it belongs to them."
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Citizens Rally Against Democrat Attempt to Force California Emissions Standards on Illinois Families
On February 27, 2024, a new Democrat legislation proposing that Illinois adhere to ultra-strict California vehicle emissions standards has sparked backlash among citizens and lawmakers. In a recent statement, "The Caucus Blog of the Illinois House Republicans" highlighted their efforts, stating, "House Republicans Working to Keep Radical California Emission Standards out of Illinois."The proposed legislation has raised concerns among various groups in Illinois, with critics arguing that adopting California's emission standards would negatively impact truckers, motorists,...
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Illinois Governor Proposes Record Budget with Increased Spending on Migrants
Illinois Governor Pritzker has recently unveiled a historic budget proposal totaling $52.7 billion, the largest in the state's history. As part of this budget, there are plans to allocate a significant amount of funding towards supporting migrants in the state. According to Rep. Dennis Tipsword, there are concerns about the allocation of taxpayer dollars towards illegal migrants. He expressed his apprehension stating, "Governor Pritzker just proposed the largest budget in state history... preparing to spend hundreds of millions more of YOUR taxpayer dollars on illegal...
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Corruption Sentence, Budget Address, Gun Ban Update, and More
Former Speaker Mike Madigan’s Chief of Staff, Tim Mapes, has been sentenced to 2.5 years in prison for making false declarations before a grand jury and obstruction of justice. Mapes was held accountable for his wrongful attempt to guard the corrupt ways of Mike Madigan. As House Republicans have pushed for tighter ethics laws, one of the recently filed bills, HB 4119, aims to prevent defendants from using campaign contributions for their legal defense, highlighting the need for ethics reform.In addition to Mapes, federal prosecutors in Chicago secured several convictions...