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Burns: State inmates must dispose of hard-soled boots by Friday

(May 08, 2018) Rep. Frank Burns

EBENSBURG, May 8 – State prison inmates have until Friday to turn in or mail home their hard-soled work boots, according to state Rep. Frank Burns, who called for a total ban after Timberland-style footwear was used to kick a corrections officer to death in February. Burns, D-Cambria, who attended the funeral service for SCI-Somerset corrections officer Sgt. Mark Baserman, wrote letters to the governor and state Department of Corrections demanding that in addition to suspending new sales through prison commissaries, all boots already in prisoner possession be confiscated. Burns said the Department of Corrections, in the latest newsletter published on its state website, announced that inmates were advised in April that they have until May 11 to get rid of their boots – by shipping them home, sending them home with a visitor, turning them in without reimbursement or donating them to a local organization. “Like many others, I was shocked to find out that inmates were allowed to purchase boots that could be used as weapons in the first place, so I’m ecstatic to read that – and I quote – “Inmates were advised to arrange to get rid of their boots,’” Burns said. “The DOC decision to remove hard-soled boots, although tucked away on page 36 of a 55-page online newsletter, was the right one.” As he launched his own fact-gathering effort in the wake of Baserman’s death, Burns said he was provided Read more

 

Department of Corrections notice banning hard-soled boots

(May 08, 2018) Rep. Frank Burns

Here's page 36 of the latest DOC newsletter, detailing how inmates must get rid of their heavy-soled boots. Read more

 

Burns: Lobbying reform bill blocked by partisan GOP chairman

(May 07, 2018) Rep. Frank Burns

EBENSBURG, May 7 – Baffled over why his good-government bill -- which would double the length of time former state officials and employees must wait to become lobbyists -- has been stalled in committee for 15 months, state Rep. Frank Burns says a recent admission points to blatant partisanship as the reason. Burns said his H.B. 68 , which he views as an extremely good piece of legislation with strong public support, was referred to the House State Government Committee on Jan. 23, 2017, where it’s been bottled up ever since. “I’ve been perplexed about this inertia for nearly a year-and-a-half, but now we all know the answer as to why we’re not increasing from one to two years the amount of time former officials must wait before cashing in as lobbyists,” Burns said. “And that answer is purposeful stalling by a powerful Republican.” Burns said nothing moves through the State Government Committee without the blessing of its Majority Chairman Daryl Metcalfe, a Republican from Butler County, who recently admitted to purposely blocking all bills put forth by Burns and other members of the minority Democratic Party. Burns said that Metcalfe recently posted on Facebook, “I block all substantive Democrat legislation sent to my committee,” and at a recent town meeting said, “I don’t move anything substantive that’s Democrat legislation.” This type of one-sided political posturing, Burns Read more

 

Burns resolution designates ‘National Police Week’ in Pa.

(May 02, 2018) Rep. Frank Burns

HARRISBURG, May 2 – State Rep. Frank Burns’ resolution designating May 13 through 19 as “National Police Week” and May 15 as “Police Officers Memorial Day” in Pennsylvania was unanimously adopted by the House today. Burns, D-Cambria, said he introduced H.R. 850 to remind all Pennsylvanians of the critical role police officers perform in keeping order in a nation governed by laws. “The jobs they perform are increasingly fraught with danger and disrespect, to the point where every day bodily injury or death is a real concern,” said Burns, chairman of the legislature’s Blue Lives Matter Caucus. “I believe most law-abiding citizens – and there are many – truly appreciate the professionalism and braveness of the vast majority of police officers.” Burns said the roots of his resolution trace to 1962, when President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15 as “Peace Officers Memorial Day” and the week on which that date fell as “Police Week.” In 2018, Burns said tens of thousands of law enforcement officers from around the world will participate in numerous events to honor those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice while in police service. Also, continuing a tradition that began in 1982, Burns said a memorial service will be held in Senate Park in Washington, D.C. Burns said it is important for all citizens to be aware of the duties, responsibilities, Read more

 

Burns: Conemaugh Valley School District awarded $43,144 Food Service grant for new cafeteria oven

(May 02, 2018) Rep. Frank Burns

EBENSBURG, May 2 – State Rep. Frank Burns, D-Cambria, today announced the award of a $43,144 state grant to Conemaugh Valley School District for purchase of a $43,144 double combination oven at its junior-senior high school. Burns said the state Department of Education supplied the funding through its 2017 Food Service Equipment Grant program, which aims to help school districts purchase equipment to serve healthier meals that meet the updated meal patterns, improve food safety and expand access to food. “I thank the Education Department for supplying this assistance to Conemaugh Valley, because it ultimately benefits the students who are served by the school’s cafeteria,” Burns said. “In addition to making meal preparation safer and more efficient, this new oven will help the district provide more up-to-date nutrition offerings.” Burns said the grant program also emphasizes putting more fruits and vegetables in school meals. Read more

 

Burns resolution designates May 1 as ‘Law Day’ in Pa.

(May 01, 2018) Rep. Frank Burns

EBENSBURG, May 1 – State Rep. Frank Burns’ resolution ( H.R. 779 ) designating May 1 as “Law Day” in Pennsylvania was adopted by the House today. Burns, D-Cambria, said the theme for this year’s celebration is “The 14th Amendment: Transforming American Democracy”. The 14 th Amendment addresses U.S. citizenship and the rights of U.S. citizens. “This event has been designated as a day to educate people of all ages about the legal system and to celebrate liberty, justice and equality,” Burns said. “We should teach our children about the importance of civil and human rights and promoting equality for all under the law.” Throughout Pennsylvania, Burns said, Law Day is observed by focusing on informing children from kindergarten through the college level. Judges and lawyers visit schools, educating students about their legal rights and responsibilities. Burns said the Pennsylvania Bar Association is in its 14th year of participating, along with county bar associations across the commonwealth. Read more

 

Burns provides update on Pa.’s concealed carry reciprocity agreements

(Apr 17, 2018) Rep. Frank Burns

EBENSBURG, April 17 – Seeking to provide up-to-date information on a frequently asked question, state Rep. Frank Burns, D-Cambria, is sharing the latest news regarding Pennsylvania’s reciprocity agreements with other states concerning concealed carry handgun licenses. Burns said that according to state Attorney General Josh Shapiro, a former Democratic colleague of his in the state House, Pennsylvania has entered into updated, written reciprocity agreements with 13 states: Alaska, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, West Virginia and Wyoming. Negotiations are ongoing to update out-of-date reciprocity agreements with additional states, to ensure consistency with the Pennsylvania Uniform Firearms Act, Burns said. “It’s a confusing situation for many law-abiding citizens in the 72nd Legislative District when it comes to understanding in which other states their concealed carry licenses are valid and where they are not,” Burns said. “I’m hoping that by sharing this information, it will provide them with a useful resource to navigate this maze.” Burns said the current reciprocity status of each state can be easily viewed using a map by visiting www.attorneygeneral.gov , clicking “Resources” on the navigation bar at the top of the page, then clicking “Concealed Carry Agreements” under the “General Resources” tab. Read more

 

Burns introduces anti-bullying bills at Capitol rally

(Apr 10, 2018) Rep. Frank Burns

HARRISBURG, April 10 – Invited to attend because of the strong response to his proposals to get tough on the parents of bullies, state Rep. Frank Burns expounded on his three bills at an anti-bullying rally at the Capitol today. Burns, D-Cambria, stood with other legislators from across Pennsylvania, as well as supporters of the cause, and urged unity and swift action to stamp out what he views as a major problem for schoolchildren. “As I toured schools in the 72 nd Legislative District last fall, talking about bullying and getting students to sign my anti-bullying pledge, it became evident to me just how insidious this problem is,” Burns said. “Being taunted, tortured and terrorized by other students is far more prevalent than most people think. When I heard these students’ real-life stories, I made up my mind – then and there – to do something about it.” When he announced his forthcoming legislation a few weeks ago, Burns said he was floored by the news coverage it generated statewide, nationally and even internationally – particularly the component that would fine parents up to $750 or have them face community service for their child’s repeated bullying or cyber harassment. “While schools will continue to discipline students according to district bullying policies, as they do now, this legislation is the first of its kind to impose penalties on parents,” Burns said. “All fine-generated Read more

 

A supporter of Libre’s Law, Burns hosts Pet Food Drive throughout April, which is ‘Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month’

(Mar 26, 2018) Rep. Frank Burns

EBENSBURG, March 26 – Noting his strong support for Libre’s Law, the 2017 update of Pennsylvania’s animal abuse statute, state Rep. Frank Burns will host his annual Pet Food Drive from April 1 through 30 at his four offices and in participating 72 nd Legislative District schools. Burns, D-Cambria, noted that April is an opportune time to hold the drive, as it is “Prevention of Cruelty to Animals” month. He is asking residents to donate non-perishable pet food items, either in the classrooms of participating schools or at one of his four constituent service offices: 535 Fairfield Ave., Lower Yoder Township, Johnstown, 15906; 119 S. Center St., Ebensburg, 15931; 112-A Munster Road, Portage, 15946; or Patton Senior Center, 405 Park Ave., 16668 (9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays). In addition to schools, Burns is coordinating this drive with a local animal protection organization. As in years past, Burns will arrange for school pickup and delivery of the items to that county organization. “Every year, we collect and deliver truckloads of pet food that was donated at our offices and at participating schools,” Burns said. “Of all the events we plan throughout the year, this is always one that tops the list when it comes to people’s overwhelming generosity.” Schools scheduled to participate in this Pet Food Drive include: Cambria County Christian School Cambria Heights Elementary, Read more

 

Burns bullying bills get local, state, national and International attention

(Mar 20, 2018) Rep. Frank Burns

I’m so glad that I spent much of last year visiting classrooms throughout the 72 nd Legislative District, with the purpose of talking to students about bullying and getting them to sign my anti-bullying pledge. So many students spoke openly about how they’d been bullied that it broke my heart – and, more importantly, it drove me to want to do something to help these youngsters escape from being tormented. My solution was legislation that would hold bullies’ parents accountable for tormenting other kids, including a fine of up to $500 for a third offense -- and if they still don’t get the message, $750 for each subsequent bullying offense. From Johnstown to Philadelphia and Pittsburgh; from Washington, D.C., to Biloxi, Mississippi; and from CBS to MSN; my anti-bullying bills got widespread media attention after they were unveiled. The concept even got TV coverage in Australia and news coverage in Canada! I think the attention it’s generated is the hallmark of a good idea. You can listen to me explaining my anti-bullying bills in this Wilkes-Barre, WILK NewsRadio interview . Here’s a look at some other news coverage: Parents.com A state lawmaker in Pennsylvania is making headlines nationwide for his plans to propose anti-bullying legislation. Yahoo7.com Sunrise (Australia TV clip) “I think it’s an outstanding idea because if you think about what we’re doing to parental responsibilities, we Read more

 

Rep. Burns on WILK NewsRadio discussing anti-bullying legislation

(Mar 15, 2018) Rep. Frank Burns

Explaining the facts behind the effort to stop bullying in our schools Read more

 

Parents of school bullies would face up to $500 fine, community service under Burns bill

(Mar 12, 2018) Rep. Frank Burns

HARRISBURG, March 12 – Parents of school bullies would be on the hook for up to a $500 fine and possible community service requirement under legislation being proposed by state Rep. Frank Burns, D-Cambria, in an attempt to curb the problem of students taunting and terrorizing their peers. “Bullying is underreported and often unaddressed in any meaningful way,” said Burns, who made it his mission to visit classrooms throughout his district last year to talk about bullying and have students sign an anti-bullying pledge. “When it’s not addressed, bullying can escalate quickly from taunts and hurtful online posts to physical assaults and—in worst cases—suicide. Holding students, parents and officials at all levels accountable is the only way to put an end to this scourge.” Burns’ bold parental accountability measure—one of a package of three bills Burns plans to introduce shortly—would require schools to notify parents each time their child bullies another child. After the first incident, parents would be told what action the school took. After a second incident, parents would be required to take a parenting class on bullying and would be asked to attend a bullying resolution conference. But if a student bullies a third time or more in the same school year, Burns’ bill would ensure that the bully’s parents receive a court citation and the related stiff penalty of a fine up to $500 Read more

 

Burns: Child safety anchors ‘Breakfast with the Easter Bunny’ on March 31

(Mar 05, 2018) Rep. Frank Burns

EBENSBURG, March 1 – Recognizing the importance of keeping children safe, state Rep. Frank Burns is building that theme into his inaugural “Breakfast with the Easter Bunny” set for 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, March 31 at the Young Peoples Community Center, 300 Prave St., Ebensburg. Burns, D-Cambria, said child fingerprinting and IDs, bicycle safety tips and an appearance by McGruff the Crime Dog will figure prominently in the event. Free breakfasts from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. for children under 12 and the opportunity for photographs with the Easter Bunny will also be offered. “Given everyone’s heightened concern for the safety of children, my staff and I decided that adding this event to our annual schedule would be an appropriate way to educate and help protect them, wrapped within the aura of having some fun,” Burns said. “Make no mistake, though: While we’re gearing up for everyone to have a good time, the primary focus of child safety is quite serious.” Burns said Cambria County Crimestoppers will collect a requested $5 donation from any adult who wishes to have breakfast. Anyone wishing to attend is asked to RSVP at (814) 736-7339 no later than Tuesday, March 20. Read more

 

Burns: Cambria County to receive ATV grant

(Mar 02, 2018) Rep. Frank Burns

HARRISBURG, March 2 – State Rep. Frank Burns, D-Cambria, announced that he learned today the state will be awarding Cambria County a grant for construction and maintenance of new ATV trails at Rock Run Recreation Area. “My office is committed to assisting organizations apply for grants,” Burns said. “It’s great to see the state making investments in our region by expanding outdoor recreational opportunities.” The $86,000 in funds will go toward the purchase of equipment that will be used to construct and maintain approximately 140 miles of off-highway vehicle trails at the recreational area. The grant, administered by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, is being funded through the department’s ATV Management Restricted Account. Read more

 

Burns demands governor, corrections department confiscate deadly boots from state prison inmates

(Feb 28, 2018) Rep. Frank Burns

HARRISBURG, Feb. 28 – State Rep. Frank Burns, D-Cambria, sent letters today to Gov. Tom Wolf and Department of Corrections Secretary John Wetzel demanding that the state confiscate and permanently ban inmates’ heavy-soled work boots, like the ones an inmate wore earlier this month to inflict injuries that killed an SCI-Somerset corrections officer. Burns, founder and chairman of the Blue Lives Matter Caucus, is also demanding to know why the brutal attack on Sgt. Mark Baserman, who was kicked repeatedly in the head, had to happen before the DOC decided to stop selling those boots through the prison commissary system. “I want to know why a state corrections officer had to die before the Department of Corrections responded,” Burns said. “The department said they’re suspending commissary sales of these heavy work boots, but what about the hundreds of boots inmates are still wearing? Do we have to wait for another officer to die before the state acts to remove them completely?” Burns said he stands solidly with the state’s prison guards in their call for immediate removal and ban of the boots. “It’s not enough to suspend commissary sales,” Burns said. “We need to confiscate these weapons now. I don’t care if the inmates have to wear flip-flops if it means saving a corrections officer’s life.” Burns also is demanding answers on what footwear inmates are allowed to wear and when the Read more

 

Burns' letters to Gov. Wolf, Secretary Wetzel on inmate boots

(Feb 28, 2018) Rep. Frank Burns

Read Rep Burns' letters to Gov. Wolf, PA Corrections Secretary Wetzel demanding answers on deadly threat from inmate boots Read more

 

Burns stands with prison guards, calls for total ban on heavy work boots for inmates

(Feb 27, 2018) Rep. Frank Burns

HARRISBURG, Feb. 27 – State Rep. Frank Burns, D-Cambria, announced that he will be sending letters to Gov. Tom Wolf and Department of Corrections Secretary John Wetzel demanding a total ban on Timberland and similar-style heavy work boots for prison inmates. Burns is also demanding answers on why a state corrections officer had to die before the department responded. SCI-Somerset Corrections Officer Sgt. Mark Baserman died Monday, nearly two weeks after being brutally attacked by an inmate wearing Timberland boots. A day after Baserman’s death, the state Department of Corrections issued a statement saying that it had suspended sale of such boots in prison commissaries. Burns, the founder and chairman of the Blue Lives Matter Caucus, calls the move too little too late. “The department says they’re banning the sale of these heavy, weighted boots. But why were they allowed in the prison in the first place, and why are they still in our prisons now, when it’s clear they can be used as deadly weapons?” Burns said. “I don’t care if the inmates have to wear flip-flops if it means saving a corrections officer’s life.” Burns said he stands with the state’s prison guards, who also are calling for a complete ban on Timberland and other heavy boots for inmates. “I’m calling for action now to confiscate and destroy these deadly boots," Burns said. “I’m also demanding answers on what Read more

 

Burns announces more than $340,000 in local fire department, EMS grants

(Feb 14, 2018) Rep. Frank Burns

HARRISBURG, Feb. 14 – State Rep. Frank Burns, D-Cambria, has announced the award of $341,661 in state grants to 27 fire and ambulance companies in the 72 nd Legislative District. “I’m so pleased to announce the award of these grants,” Burns said. “The funding is critical to enable our region’s firefighters and emergency rescue workers to continue their vital, life-saving work. Our community benefits directly from these resources and the efforts of these brave workers.” The grant list – by county, department and entity – is as follows: Ashville Fire Company – Fire Company, $15,000 Cambria Township Volunteer Fire Company – Fire Company, $13,570 Carrolltown Fire Company – Fire Company, $11,911 Community Volunteer Fire Company of Lilly – Fire Company, $13,754 Cresson Area Ambulance Service Inc. – EMS, $7,037 Cresson Volunteer Fire Company – Fire Company, $15,000 Dauntless Fire Company – Fire Company, $15,000 East Taylor Volunteer Fire Company – Fire Company, $13,570 Ebensburg Area Ambulance Association – EMS, $7,037 Gallitzin Fire Company No. 1 – Fire Company, $13,386 Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company – EMS, $7,037 Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company – Fire Company, $15,000 John Carroll Area Ambulance Service – EMS, $7,037 Loretto Fire Company – Fire Company, $12,280 Lower Yoder Volunteer Fire Company – Read more

 

Burns: $440,905 grant to aid Portage streetscape project

(Feb 08, 2018) Rep. Frank Burns

PORTAGE, Feb. 8 – State Rep. Frank Burns, D-Cambria, today announced a Commonwealth Financing Authority grant of $440,905 for Phase 2 of the Portage Borough sidewalk improvement project, through the PennDOT Multimodal Transportation Fund. Burns said this project is the second phase of a multi-phase streetscape program to establish pedestrian connectivity, and to improve pedestrian safety through installation of new lighting, sidewalk connections, crosswalks and signs. “I’m very pleased that we’re starting off 2018 with the announcement of yet another significant state investment in our area,” said Burns, noting the award of $15 million in state grants and loans in the 72 nd Legislative District in 2017. “I thank the CFA board for continuing this trend, the ultimate fruits of which are a better quality of life for residents and, hopefully, economic growth.” The Multimodal Transportation Fund provides grants to encourage economic development and ensure that a safe and reliable system of transportation is available to the residents of the commonwealth. Funds may be used for the development, rehabilitation and enhancement of transportation assets to existing communities, such as streetscape, lighting, sidewalk enhancement, pedestrian safety, connectivity of transportation assets and transit-oriented development. Read more

 

Commonwealth Financing Authority accepting applications, Burns' office can help

(Feb 02, 2018) Rep. Frank Burns

EBENSBURG, Feb. 2 – State Rep. Frank Burns said the Commonwealth Financing Authority, the independent agency that awards grants for a number of state programs, is now accepting applications for its next award round, which is expected in September. "State grants help many municipalities, communities, businesses and organizations tackle and complete projects for the benefit of us all," Burns said. "I'm happy to offer entities help in applying for a share of this funding." Applications will be accepted now through May 31 for the following programs: Abandoned Mine Drainage Abatement and Treatment Program - For abatement and/or treatment of abandoned mine drainage through treatment facility system construction, as well as for treatment system repair, upgrade or operation and maintenance of existing passive and active treatment systems. Baseline Water Quality Data Program - For statewide initiatives to establish baseline water quality data on private water supplies. Flood Mitigation Program - For statewide initiatives to assist with flood mitigation projects. Greenways, Trails, and Recreation Program - For planning, acquisition, development, rehabilitation and repair of greenways, recreational trails, open space, parks and beautification projects. Orphan and Abandoned Well Plugging - For funding orphan or abandoned well plugging projects. Sewage Facilities Program - For statewide initiatives complying with the Pennsylvania Sewage Read more

 

Burns: State inmates must dispose of hard-soled boots by Friday
May 08, 2018

Department of Corrections notice banning hard-soled boots
May 08, 2018

Burns: Lobbying reform bill blocked by partisan GOP chairman
May 07, 2018

Burns resolution designates ‘National Police Week’ in Pa.
May 02, 2018

Burns: Conemaugh Valley School District awarded $43,144 Food Service grant for new cafeteria oven
May 02, 2018

Burns resolution designates May 1 as ‘Law Day’ in Pa.
May 01, 2018

Burns provides update on Pa.’s concealed carry reciprocity agreements
Apr 17, 2018

Burns introduces anti-bullying bills at Capitol rally
Apr 10, 2018

A supporter of Libre’s Law, Burns hosts Pet Food Drive throughout April, which is ‘Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month’
Mar 26, 2018

Burns bullying bills get local, state, national and International attention
Mar 20, 2018

Rep. Burns on WILK NewsRadio discussing anti-bullying legislation
Mar 15, 2018

Parents of school bullies would face up to $500 fine, community service under Burns bill
Mar 12, 2018

Burns: Child safety anchors ‘Breakfast with the Easter Bunny’ on March 31
Mar 05, 2018

Burns: Cambria County to receive ATV grant
Mar 02, 2018

Burns demands governor, corrections department confiscate deadly boots from state prison inmates
Feb 28, 2018

Burns' letters to Gov. Wolf, Secretary Wetzel on inmate boots
Feb 28, 2018

Burns stands with prison guards, calls for total ban on heavy work boots for inmates
Feb 27, 2018

Burns announces more than $340,000 in local fire department, EMS grants
Feb 14, 2018

Burns: $440,905 grant to aid Portage streetscape project
Feb 08, 2018

Commonwealth Financing Authority accepting applications, Burns' office can help
Feb 02, 2018