State Representative Dennis Tipsword (il) | Representative Dennis Tipsword, Jr. (R) 105th District
State Representative Dennis Tipsword (il) | Representative Dennis Tipsword, Jr. (R) 105th District
The United States Supreme Court has declined to hear a set of challenges to Illinois Democrats' firearms ban for now.
Illinois Gas Taxes Increased This Week
Residents have noticed an increase in gas prices just in time for July 4th travel. The state's tax on motor fuel has risen every year since 2019. Another increase was imposed on July 1, raising the levy on gasohol and equivalent fuels from 45.4 cents per gallon to 47.0 cents per gallon. As recently as the first half of 2019, the state levy was only 19 cents per gallon, marking an almost 150% increase over the past five years. The 2024 Illinois tax on diesel fuel also saw an increase. In addition to the state tax, Illinois buyers must pay a federal gasoline tax of 18.4 cents per gallon and may also face supplemental taxes levied by local governments.
Neighboring states charge much lower motor fuel taxes than Illinois. For instance, Indiana's current tax rate is 18.9 cents per gallon.
New Fiscal Year, New Laws
With the new fiscal year beginning Monday, Governor Pritzker signed into law 49 bills impacting several areas including public safety, elections, and hunting.
Applications are Open for OSLAD Grants
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources will accept applications for the next round of Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grants from July 1 through September 13 until 5 p.m. Established by the Illinois General Assembly in 1986, OSLAD is a cost-sharing program between state and local governments that has awarded more than $585 million for park projects throughout Illinois.
"My District Director Beckie Johnson will be happy to help guide you through the process," stated a representative. Johnson can be reached at 815-844-9344. Additionally, IDNR staff along with the Illinois Association of Park Districts will offer training on how to complete an application in Amplifund on Wednesday, July 17 at 11 am.
Around the District
Congratulations are extended to Pontiac Township High School Indians – new IHSA Class 3A State Softball Champions! In their championship game, they shut out their opponents with a score of 6-0. Certificates from the House of Representatives were presented honoring their achievement.
Celebrate Independence Day Safely
Consumer fireworks remain largely illegal in Illinois under the Pyrotechnic Use Act passed in 1942 which bans their sale, possession, and use despite being legal in most other states.
Novelty fireworks-type devices that are not considered consumer fireworks and are legal in Illinois include sparklers, snake pellets, smoke devices, and some small cap guns. However, local ordinances may vary; for example, sparklers are outlawed within Chicago city limits.
Statistics from the Consumer Product Safety Commission indicate thousands of injuries occur annually due to fireworks-related accidents:
- Never point fireworks toward another person
- Never light fireworks in a container or indoors
- Never light fireworks near anything flammable
- Never attempt to re-light a device that failed to go off
Large supervised displays at events such as county fairs or municipal celebrations provide safer alternatives for enjoying fireworks during Independence Day festivities.
Read more about approved and prohibited consumer fireworks from the Illinois State Fire Marshall's list.
Have a safe holiday weekend!
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