I have one more change in mind that I might need to implement.

Would anyone object to me making a change that would prevent a member from earning chips until they gain reputation?

I would make this change to stop new members from spamming the forum just to get the chips. I think it would work well too.

Objections? Anyone? Bueller?

If I do this, I think I can make it so it will only apply to new members so that existing members won't be affected.