State Rep. Ryan Spain
Recent News About State Rep. Ryan Spain
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Six Months into Cashless Bail, Public Safety Diminished
Illinois House Republicans have expressed their concerns about the impact of the cashless bail system implemented under the Illinois SAFE-T Act, citing a decline in public safety since its enactment. House Republican Floor Leader Patrick Windhorst highlighted the challenges brought about by the new law, emphasizing the negative consequences of releasing individuals accused of crimes back onto the streets while awaiting their court dates.According to Windhorst, "Now that the end of cash bail is in place, we have seen numerous reports from throughout the state of...
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Rep. Spain in the Spotlight During Committee Hearings and on the House Floor
Rep. Spain has been at the center of attention this week during committee hearings and on the House floor. The representative's presence was notable in both settings, where important discussions and decisions were being made.
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Nonprofit Grant Opportunity Available from Union Pacific
Union Pacific has opened its annual Community Ties Local Grants application period for 2024. According to Union Pacific, "For over 160 years, Union Pacific has been committed to Building America – serving as an economic engine and improving the standard of life for millions across the country." The company's Community Ties Giving Program aims to "build safe, prosperous, vibrant and inclusive communities by investing in high-quality nonprofits and programs in the cities and towns in which they operate, and their employees live and work."Grants ranging from $5,000 to...
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Illinois' Rich Comedy History and Legacy of Top Comedians
Illinois has a rich history in the world of comedy, with a legacy that has produced some of the top stand-up comedians and actors in the industry. The state's prominence in comedy can be traced back to the opening of The Second City in Chicago in 1959, which played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of comedy entertainment.The Second City, known for its improvisational comedy, has been a breeding ground for many successful comedians. Alumni such as Joan Rivers, Roger Bowen, and Jack Burns have found success in their careers, thanks to the club's focus on developing...
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Wishing You a Happy Easter!
On March 31, 2024, a message of goodwill was shared with the words, "Happy Easter! Wishing everyone who celebrates a peaceful and joyous day with family and friends."As Easter celebrations unfold around the world, the sentiment of peace and joy is extended to all those partaking in this significant holiday. This message serves as a reminder of the importance of coming together with loved ones and cherishing moments of happiness and togetherness.May this Easter bring warmth, love, and renewal to all who observe it. Happy Easter to those celebrating, and may the spirit of...
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Honoring Those Who Served on Vietnam War Veterans Day
On March 29, 2024, Vietnam War Veterans Day is observed to pay tribute to the 2.7 million Americans who served in the Vietnam War. The day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by these individuals in service to their country.In a heartfelt gesture, a message of gratitude is extended to all veterans of the Vietnam War for their bravery and sacrifice. The acknowledgment highlights the significance of their service and the lasting impact it has had on the nation.As the nation reflects on the Vietnam War Veterans Day, it is a time to honor, remember, and express...
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Illinois’ Leading Role in the Creation and Success of Israel Bonds
In response to the unprovoked and deadly attacks by Hamas-led terrorist groups on Israel last October, several U.S. state governments stepped up to lend a helping hand financially to the Israelis. The Illinois State Treasurer’s Office pledged to buy an additional $10 million in Israel Bonds at the onset of the attacks, continuing the longstanding relationship between Illinois and Israel that dates back to the Middle Eastern country’s creation in 1948. Illinois now has over $100 million in total Israel bond holdings.Peoria’s Sam Rothberg, the founder of the Israel Bonds...
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Honoring Our Nations Heroes on National Medal of Honor Day
On March 25th, 2024, the nation commemorates National Medal of Honor Day, a day dedicated to honoring those who have exemplified extraordinary bravery and courage in the line of duty. Established in 1861, the Medal of Honor is the highest military award for valor, with only 3,517 members of the armed forces having received this prestigious recognition.Among the distinguished recipients of the Medal of Honor is Illinois native Hal Fritz of Peoria. Fritz was awarded the Medal of Honor in 1971 for his remarkable acts of heroism, described as "conspicuous gallantry and...
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Celebrating National SBDC Day: Small Business Development Centers Making a Difference
Today, on March 20, 2024, the nation celebrates National SBDC Day, acknowledging the significant impact of Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) across the country. As stated by an official source, "Today is National SBDC Day, which recognizes the impact of Small Business Development Centers across the country."SBDCs play a crucial role in the business community by providing essential resources and tools to aspiring entrepreneurs and supporting existing businesses in their growth endeavors. In the words of the same source, "SBDC’s provide resources and tools for...
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Update: Ethics Reform, Taxes, Firearms
House Republican Leader Tony McCombie and former Illinois Governor Pat Quinn have proposed a constitutional amendment in Illinois to tackle corruption. Spain stated, “The state legislature has failed to deliver needed ethics reform to clamp down on this behavior.” Quinn added, “The legislature has shown it’s not able to adequately reform its ethical requirements on its own.” Their proposal, House Joint Resolution Constitutional Amendment 19, aims to allow citizens to establish and enforce stronger ethical standards on elected officials.In a separate press conference,...
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Primary Election Day in Illinois - Voters Prepare to Cast Their Ballots
Illinois is among the five states set to hold their Primary Election Days on Tuesday, March 19, 2024. This comes on the heels of Joe Biden and Donald Trump securing their parties' nominations for the presidential race in the upcoming General Election on Tuesday, November 5, 2024.Despite the presidential candidates being decided, Illinois voters still have important decisions to make during the primary elections. They will have the opportunity to vote for nominees for various positions, including U.S. House representatives, Illinois House and Senate seats, judicial...
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Illinois Leads the Way in Agriculture
With National Ag Week taking place from March 17-23, 2024, the Illinois State Capitol was abuzz with activity during the Session Week before as agricultural advocates including local farm bureau groups, FFA students, and livestock and energy industry advocates took to their State Capitol to advocate for Illinois leading role in agricultural production of energy, food, and fiber for the world.Illinois is the #1 soybean producing state in the country, with 15% of all U.S. soybeans produced in Illinois. Additionally, Illinois is the #2 corn producing state in the country,...
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IDOT Announces Overnight Closures on I-80 for Mar. 20-21
The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has announced that Interstate 80 in Bureau County will be closed for two consecutive nights on March 20 and March 21. The closures are necessary to facilitate the setting of beams for the 470 East Road bridge near Sheffield. According to the announcement, the closures will stretch between the Illinois 78 interchange (exit 33) and the Illinois 40 interchange (exit 45) and will be in effect from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. each night."Westbound I-80 will close overnight on Wednesday, March 20, followed by the eastbound I-80 closure...
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State Representative Ryan Spain Engages with Firefighters and Irish Officials in Springfield
State Representative Ryan Spain engaged with a diverse group of individuals in Springfield this week, showcasing the importance of collaboration and advocacy in various sectors.Representative Spain met with Peoria IL Fire Department Fire Prevention Division Chief Nate Rice and his daughter Brinae. Nate, along with firefighters from across the state, was advocating for fire service issues, while Brinae was part of a group of FFA students advocating for Illinois Agriculture Legislative Day. This meeting highlighted the dedication of individuals working towards crucial...
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Rep. Spain, Colleagues Meet with Officials from Ireland
House Deputy Minority Leader Ryan Spain, House Minority Leader Tony McCombie, and Deputy Leader Norine Hammond were present today at the Capitol to greet a delegation from the Irish Consulate in Chicago. The delegation included several Irish officials, as reported, Minister Heather Humphries, Consul General Kevin Byrne, Vice Consul Padraig Manning, Special Advisor Pauric McPhillips, and Eamonn McCormack.
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Illinois Psychiatric Society Essay Contest Offers Cash Prize for High School Students
The Illinois Psychiatric Society (IPS) is offering a unique opportunity for high school students in Illinois to showcase their writing skills and win cash prizes through the Carl C. Bell, MD Memorial Award Essay Competition. According to the Mar 13, 2024 announcement, the competition is open to all high school students in Illinois, with submissions due on June 1, 2024.The top prize for the essay contest is a $500 cash prize, along with the honor of having the winning submission presented at the 2024 IPS Annual Meeting and published in the official IPS...
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Rep. Spain Collaborates with Former IL Governor and Illinois Soybean Association Advocates
Rep. Spain, alongside former Illinois Governor Pat Quinn, held a press conference to introduce an ethics reform proposal. The collaboration between the two political figures aims to address important issues within the state. Additionally, Rep. Spain engaged with advocates from the Illinois Soybean Association at the Capitol, demonstrating a commitment to working closely with various stakeholders in the community.
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Road Work on I-80 in Bureau County to Begin March 11
The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has revealed that a significant construction project is set to commence on Interstate 80 in Bureau County starting March 11. The two-year endeavor, amounting to $36.8 million, will focus on resurfacing nearly 10 miles of the interstate, stretching from the Bureau-Henry County line to just east of the Illinois 40 interchange.Traffic adjustments will be implemented, with lanes reduced to one in each direction and a shift to the westbound lanes as the initial phase kicks off to address the eastbound lanes' patching and...
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Rep. Spain Proposal Gives Voters Power to Combat Corruption
Rep. Ryan Spain and former Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn have come together to propose a significant amendment to the Illinois Constitution. The proposal aims to give voters the authority to combat corruption through a petition process, providing a direct way for the public to enact anti-corruption measures. Speaking at a press conference at the Capitol, Rep. Spain emphasized the importance of empowering voters in the fight against corruption, stating, "We believe that giving the voters the power to combat corruption is essential in a democracy." Former Governor Pat Quinn echoed...
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Video: Rep. Spain Presents Ethics Reform Amendment Alongside Former IL Gov. Pat Quinn
Today at the Capitol, Deputy House Republican Leader Ryan Spain (R-73rd District) and former Democratic Illinois Governor Pat Quinn came together to introduce a significant proposal aimed at enhancing ethical standards for elected officials in Illinois.The proposal, known as House Joint Resolution Constitutional Amendment 19 (HJRCA 19), was put forth by Rep. Spain on March 1. It seeks to amend the Illinois Constitution by creating a petition process that empowers citizens to suggest modifications to state ethics regulations through ballot initiatives that will be subject...