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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Nuclear Energy Development Moratorium Lifted in Illinois
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has officially lifted the moratorium on new nuclear construction in the state, allowing for the development of small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs). The legislation, which was passed earlier this year, aims to enhance the future reliability and affordability of Illinois' energy supply.The decision to lift the moratorium comes as a significant step towards the advancement of nuclear energy technology in the state. SMRs are a smaller, more flexible type of nuclear reactor that offers several advantages over traditional large-scale reactors....
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Illinois in the Movies: The State's Festive Film Legacy
Illinois has long been a popular destination for filmmakers, serving as the backdrop for numerous iconic movies. As the holiday season approaches, the state's rich cinematic history comes to light once again, with a plethora of Christmas movies filmed and set in Illinois. Among the notable mentions are the timeless classics "Home Alone" and "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation."These beloved films have become synonymous with the holiday season, capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide. However, they are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Illinois'...
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Illinois Asks U.S. Supreme Court to Deny Gun Ban Injunction
The Pritzker administration in Illinois has made a move in the ongoing legal battle over the state's gun ban. With the deadline for firearm registration approaching, the administration has submitted a request to the U.S. Supreme Court, urging them to deny an injunction that would prevent the ban from being enforced. This development comes as gun rights advocates continue to challenge the constitutionality of the ban.The state of Illinois implemented a gun ban earlier this year, which requires all firearms to be registered with the government. The deadline for registration...
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Happy Hanukkah: A Celebration of Light and Tradition
Sundown today marks the beginning of the Hanukkah celebration that will last for eight days and eight nights. As the world comes together to commemorate this joyous occasion, we extend our warmest wishes to all who celebrate.Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, holds a special place in the hearts of Jewish communities around the globe. It is a time to honor the triumph of light over darkness, freedom over oppression, and hope over despair.While the origins of Hanukkah date back over two millennia, its message continues to resonate today. It is a reminder of...
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A Date Which Will Live in Infamy: Remembering the Attack on Pearl Harbor
On December 7, 2023, the nation commemorates the 2,403 Americans who lost their lives in the infamous Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. This solemn day serves as a reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of those who were killed while serving our nation.The attack on Pearl Harbor, which occurred 82 years ago, remains etched in our collective memory. It was an event that forever changed the course of history and propelled the United States into World War II. Today, we pay tribute to the lives lost and honor their unwavering commitment to defending our freedom.As we...
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Be Safe this Holiday Season: Celebrate Responsibly!
December is National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month, and for a good reason. The holiday season, known for its festive spirit and gatherings, unfortunately, also brings with it a higher rate of crashes compared to the rest of the year. It is crucial to prioritize safety and make responsible choices to ensure that you and your loved ones do not become statistics this year.One of the most important messages during this time is to never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Impaired driving puts not only oneself at risk but also endangers the lives of...
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Gun Ban Challenge Deadline Approaching
The state of Illinois is facing a critical deadline as it prepares to respond to a challenge to its firearms ban. The challenge, brought before the U.S. Supreme Court by Democrats, has put the state's gun laws in the spotlight.According to a report by The Center Square, Illinois has until Wednesday to provide its response to the Supreme Court. The challenge centers around the Democrats' firearms ban, which has sparked controversy and debate among Second Amendment advocates.The case has garnered attention from both sides of the gun control debate. Supporters of the ban...
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GOMB projects State budget deficits in FY25 and following years
The Governor's Office of Management and Budget (GOMB) has released a report projecting long-term spending and tax revenue trends for the state of Illinois. The report highlights compounding increases in expenses such as health care costs, pensions, and education funding. The GOMB predicts that the general funds budgeted spending, including pensions, will rise from $48.3 billion in FY24 to almost $55.8 billion in FY29. To address these deficits, Illinois is focusing on building up its Budget Stabilization Fund, also known as the rainy day fund. The fund currently holds...
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Ribbon Cutting Marks Grand Opening of the Corn Belt Ports Regional Office in Peoria
A new Corn Belt Ports Regional Office was officially opened in Peoria on Thursday, marking a significant milestone in regional economic development and waterborne commerce along the Upper Mississippi River and Illinois Waterway. The grand opening was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by local officials and representatives.In a statement, Representative Dennis Tipsword expressed his congratulations on the occasion, saying, "Congratulations on the Grand Opening of the new Corn Belt Ports Regional Office in Peoria Thursday! Great things are happening in the...
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Invest in Kids Program Lacks Required Progress Reports, Putting its Future in Jeopardy
The Invest in Kids scholarship program in Illinois has been hailed for its positive impact on the lives of low-income students. Since its inception, over 9,500 children have been able to attend schools that cater to their specific learning needs. However, a crucial aspect of the program has been neglected – the mandated annual reports on student progress.According to an article on illinoispolicy.org, the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) has failed to provide any reports on the progress of students benefiting from the Invest in Kids program, despite the legal...
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Compromise on Nuclear Reactor Development Awaits Governor’s Signature
Legislation passed during the fall veto session in Illinois has opened the doors for the construction of small modular reactors in the state. The bill, which is currently awaiting the governor's signature, has the potential to bring significant changes to the energy landscape of Illinois.Small modular reactors (SMRs) are a new and innovative form of nuclear technology that offer several advantages over traditional nuclear reactors. These reactors are smaller in size and can be built in a factory and then transported to the desired location. This modular approach makes...
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Give Thanks!
On this day, we celebrate the timeless tradition of Thanksgiving, a holiday that dates back over 400 years. It serves as a gentle reminder to express gratitude for the blessings we have in our lives – our loved ones, our communities, and the abundance that surrounds us. As we gather with our friends and families, the Tipsword family joins in wishing everyone a joyous and blessed Thanksgiving.Thanksgiving holds a special place in our hearts as we reflect on its historical significance. It originated in 1621 when the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag Native Americans came together...
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Migrant Crisis, Natural Gas Hikes, Holiday Events Highlighted in Illinois
Illinois is facing multiple challenges as the year 2023 comes to a close. From the ongoing migrant crisis to the impending natural gas rate hikes, the state is grappling with several pressing issues. Governor JB Pritzker recently announced a plan to address the migrant crisis in Chicago, with a total expenditure of $160 million in taxpayer funds. This brings the state's total spending on the crisis to a staggering $478 million since 2022.In response to the surge in migrants coming to Illinois, House Republican colleagues are sponsoring legislation to repeal the TRUST Act,...
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Farm Rescue Can Help Farmers in Need
Farm Rescue, a non-profit organization, is making a significant impact on the lives of farmers who have faced adversity. By offering their expertise and support, Farm Rescue helps farmers who have experienced a major illness, injury, or natural disaster by providing the necessary equipment and volunteer workforce to plant, hay, or harvest their crop free of charge. Recently, Illinois has been added to Farm Rescue's assistance area, and the organization has wasted no time in making a difference for the farmers in this region.According to a news article published in The...
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Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address-160 Years Ago Today
On November 19, 1863, a dedication ceremony took place at the Gettysburg Soldiers’ National Cemetery. The keynote speaker was Edward Everett, a renowned orator and former U.S. Senator. However, his two-hour, 13,000-word speech would soon be overshadowed by the words of President Abraham Lincoln.Lincoln's invitation to Gettysburg was an afterthought, and his speech, initially perceived as a failure, would go on to become one of the most powerful and memorable speeches in American history. In just two minutes and 271 words, Lincoln eloquently encapsulated the nation's...
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Time to Consider Ending Illinois’ Sanctuary State Status
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has come under scrutiny for his decision to allocate an additional $160 million for migrant aid, as critics argue that this funding should be used to support the citizens of Illinois instead. The controversy arises from the state's sanctuary status, which prioritizes the care of undocumented immigrants over the needs of its own residents.The announcement of the increased funding for asylum seekers has sparked a heated debate, with opponents of the sanctuary state policy arguing that it is causing unnecessary pain and suffering for the...
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U.S. Supreme Court Asked to Review Illinois’ Firearms Ban
The U.S. Supreme Court has received a petition to review the recent ruling by the Illinois Supreme Court regarding the state's firearms ban. This request comes as a new challenge to the existing legislation, which has been a topic of debate for some time.According to a report by Newsweek, the Illinois Supreme Court's decision to uphold the ban on assault weapons has sparked a legal battle, with proponents of gun rights seeking a review by the highest court in the country. The petition argues that the ban infringes upon the Second Amendment rights of Illinois residents....
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Legislators in Illinois Rush to Extend Invest in Kids Program Before Deadline
Illinois legislators are facing a race against time as they return for their final day this year, hoping to address the impending expiration of the Invest in Kids program. The program, which provides tax credits for donations to private school scholarships, is set to sunset if no action is taken. However, with none of the bills to extend the program appearing on the House calendar today, the fate of Invest in Kids hangs in the balance.The Invest in Kids program has been a significant initiative in Illinois, allowing individuals and corporations to receive tax credits for...
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Last Chance This Year to End the Nuclear Energy Moratorium
The Illinois House of Representatives is convening today for the second week of the fall veto session, with a pressing agenda that includes addressing crucial matters affecting the state. One of the key issues at hand is the potential lifting of the moratorium on new nuclear construction in Illinois. This session represents the final opportunity to make a decision on this matter before the year draws to a close.The moratorium on new nuclear energy projects in Illinois has been a topic of debate and contention for some time. Proponents argue that lifting the ban would not...
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Tipsword Sponsors Legislation to End Illinois’ Sanctuary State Humanitarian Crisis
Illinois, as a sanctuary state for undocumented immigrants, has been facing a humanitarian crisis due to the TRUST Act, which was implemented in 2017. This act prevents law enforcement agencies from collaborating with federal immigration authorities to detain or deport undocumented individuals. Consequently, undocumented immigrants in Illinois have been granted access to various benefits, including free healthcare, driver's licenses, and housing assistance, leading to a significant financial burden on the state.Recently, Representative Tipsword has taken a stand to...