State Representative Dennis Tipsword (il) | Representative Dennis Tipsword, Jr. (R) 105th District
State Representative Dennis Tipsword (il) | Representative Dennis Tipsword, Jr. (R) 105th District
A new bipartisan nuclear power plant bill has been signed into law in Illinois. The new law, known as Public Act 103-584, applies to small modular reactors that do not generate enough heat to breach containment. This development is seen as crucial for ensuring future energy reliability and affordability as the state transitions away from coal and other carbon-related energy sources. The bill, named HB 2473, went through an extensive process of discussion and debate, with concerns addressed through negotiations and the inclusion of new safety and security language.
In other news, the U.S. Supreme Court has declined to grant an injunction against Illinois' gun ban. The "Protect Illinois Communities Act" imposes a deadline for owners of certain banned firearms to register their items. However, as of mid-December, many firearm owners in Illinois had not registered their items. While opponents of the ban and registration law have asked the Supreme Court to grant an injunction, their request was denied. This means that the Illinois State Police registration deadline remains in place as the legal challenges continue.
Furthermore, a federal court has struck down a crisis pregnancy center law in Illinois. The law, enacted in the spring of 2023, aimed to push crisis pregnancy centers out of operational status in Illinois. These centers, staffed by pro-life advocates, provide counseling and assistance to pregnant women. Shortly after the law was signed, opponents sought an injunction which was granted, halting the enforcement of the flawed statute. Now, the Attorney General's office has agreed to a settlement, marking a major victory for pro-life proponents of crisis pregnancy centers.
Starting January 1, the minimum wage for non-tipped workers in Illinois will increase from $13.00/hour to $14.00/hour. Tipped employees, primarily in the service industries, will also see an increase in their wages from $7.80/hour to $8.40/hour. These increases are part of the schedule enacted within the Illinois Minimum Wage Law.
Additionally, a bipartisan bill has been enacted in Illinois that grants status to Honor and Remember Flags. The Honor and Remember Flag is a symbol of the state's commitment to honoring and remembering the lives of fallen members of the United States armed forces and their families. This legislation, known as SB 1072, designates the flag as the official symbol and will go into effect on January 1, 2024.
In local news, Pontiac, Illinois, is receiving recognition for being a wonderful town. An article titled "The Peaceful Small Town Of Pontiac, Illinois" highlights the great things Pontiac has to offer. Additionally, the Illinois Department of Corrections is hosting a screening event on January 18, 2024, at the Pontiac Rec Center to recruit applicants for Corrections Officer Trainee and Corrections Treatment Officer Trainee positions.
Lastly, the Tipsword family wishes everyone a wonderful holiday season and a very happy new year.
Source:
- Illinois General Assembly (Dec 18, 2023)
To find out more, go to this link: https://reptipsword.com/2023/12/18/nuclear-power-gun-ban-injunction-pontiac-in-the-spotlight-and-more/
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