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Pennsylvania Houses passes Conklin bill to regulate virtual currency

(17 hours ago) Rep. Scott Conklin

HARRISBURG, April 23 – The Pennsylvania House today passed state Rep. Scott Conklin’s bill that would authorize the state to regulate virtual currency. Conklin, who is majority chairman of the House Commerce Committee, said he introduced H.B. 881 to ensure consumer confidence that exchanges made with digital currency are as safe and reliable as money transactions and are regulated in the same manner. “With technology creating new forms of virtual currencies such as cryptocurrency, our laws need to keep pace with those changes to protect Pennsylvanians,” Conklin said. “Consumers deserve to know that the transactions they conduct using digital currencies are as safe and secure as those involving traditional forms of money. “Under current state law, virtual currency is not subject to the state’s Money Transmission Licensing Law, which regulates businesses that transmit money or credit. My bill would expand the law so that it covers virtual currency and requires that it be treated similarly to money transmissions under the act.” Conklin said a number of other states already regulate virtual currency. “It’s time for Pennsylvania to join the other states that are already regulating virtual currency and bringing greater consistency to the way these transactions are conducted.” The bill now heads to the state Senate for consideration. Read more

 

House passes Conklin bill to allow agents at the Office of State Inspector General to carry weapons

(Mar 18, 2025) Rep. Scott Conklin

HARRISBURG, March 18 – The Pennsylvania House today passed state Rep. Scott Conklin’s bill that would authorize agents at the Office of State Inspector General to arm themselves for protection on the job. Conklin said he introduced H.B. 36 to address a flaw in existing state law that leaves these officers – the only law enforcement officers in Pennsylvania not permitted to carry firearms while on duty – unable to properly defend themselves. “The Office of State Inspector General is a government watchdog agency that roots out fraud and other misconduct in state programs, and their agents are out there every day fighting bad actors, just like other law enforcement officers,” Conklin said. “Unlike other law enforcement, though, OSIG agents are not authorized to carry a weapon. They are investigating crimes and serving warrants – often facing dangerous situations – without the ability to protect themselves. It’s time to fix the law and ensure these officers have the same ability to defend themselves as their colleagues in other agencies.” Conklin said OSIG officers’ lack of authority to carry a weapon has other repercussions, as well. “Not only does it endanger these officers, but it forces them to rely on local law enforcement, which burdens local departments and creates delays that can allow conflicts to escalate, jeopardizing broader community Read more

 

Burns encouraging area high school seniors to apply for PA House Scholarship

(Feb 27, 2025) Rep. Frank Burns

HARRISBURG, Feb. 26 – State Rep. Frank Burns said the annual Pennsylvania House of Representatives Scholarship program is now open for applications. High school seniors may apply for the four-year scholarship, which is awarded annually to two Pennsylvania students preparing for post-secondary education. The scholarship is the value of one semester of tuition at a State System of Higher Education school for each of the four years. “As the cost of a college education continues to rise, families and students are looking for ways to ease the financial burden,” Burns said. “This scholarship is one way to help make higher education more affordable. “One of the very first winners of this scholarship was from our region, and I’m hopeful that future winners will be as well. I know we have a lot of hardworking and deserving students, so if you know someone who is eligible, please share this information with them.” The program is open to graduating high school seniors who are Pennsylvania residents with plans to attend a Pennsylvania college, university or career school as a full-time student. Students must have attained a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average in high school to be eligible. Other factors taken into consideration are a student’s commitment to community, leadership qualities, extracurricular activities and financial need. Read more

 

Conklin: Nearly $400,000 secured for Patton Township transportation improvements

(Feb 24, 2025) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Feb. 24 – New grant funding of $390,375 is coming to Patton Township for road and sidewalk rehabilitation projects, state Rep. Scott Conklin announced today. Conklin, D-Centre, said the grants – approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority under the Multimodal Transportation Fund – include $283,500 for pedestrian safety and pavement improvements on Valley Vista Drive and $106,875 for roadway improvements on North Oak Lane. “The funding is great news for Patton Township, which has identified needed pedestrian and roadway improvements to Valley Vista Drive and North Oak Lane,” Conklin said. “Funding for the Valley Vista Drive project will support milling work, removal and replacement of deteriorating pavement and the addition of curb and sidewalk improvements to ensure accessibility at crossings. “Funding for the North Oak Lane project will support work to repair and rehabilitate aging roadway and stormwater infrastructure in Park Forest Village. Both projects will bring safer, smoother travel for residents.” Conklin said the work to North Oak Lane is a continuation of prior road rehabilitation work, with the new work focusing on the area between Douglas Drive and Highland Drive. More information about the Multimodal Transportation Fund is available here: https://dced.pa.gov/programs/multimodal-transportation-fund/ Read more

 

Conklin: More than $115,200 awarded to District 77 fire and EMS companies

(Feb 20, 2025) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Feb. 20 – New resources are coming to fire and EMS companies in the 77 th Legislative District thanks to $115,202 in new grant funding, state Rep. Rep. Scott Conklin, D-Centre, announced today. “Our firefighters and EMS workers answer the call 24/7, even as their companies face constant challenges from tight budgets, equipment and facility needs and recruitment and retention issues,” Conklin said. “The new funding will help defray some of those expenses to help these frontline heroes continue their lifesaving work.” Conklin said the grants include: $16,322 to Alpha Fire Company. $15,030 to Hope Fire Company No. 2. $15,000 to Moshannon Valley Emergency Medical Services. $15,000 to Mountain Top Fire Company (EMS). $12,663 to Mountain Top Fire Company (Fire). $15,000 to Port Matilda Emergency Medical Services. $13,739 to Port Matilda Volunteer Fire Company. $12,448 to Reliance Volunteer Fire Company. The funding was awarded through the Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program, which is administered by the Office of State Fire Commissioner and is available for volunteer and career fire companies, emergency medical services and rescue squads. Eligible projects include facility upgrades, equipment, debt reduction, training and certification, education and public outreach, and recruitment and retention efforts. Additionally, fire companies were permitted to Read more

 

Conklin: Proposed budget boosts education, real-world needs

(Feb 05, 2025) Rep. Scott Conklin

HARRISBURG, Feb. 5 – State Rep. Scott Conklin issued the following statement in response to Gov. Josh Shapiro’s budget speech yesterday. “The governor’s budget proposals would deliver some powerful investments, and ones I believe we need to keep us moving in the right direction,” Conklin said. “The plan proposes investing more than a half-billion dollars into our schools and communities to continue our commitment to ensuring that students in less affluent ZIP codes get the same quality education as their peers in wealthier districts. The proposed budget also includes more than $100 million to ensure students have the mental health and safety resources they need to stay safe and thrive. “I was especially pleased to see the proposal to continue the $25 million set-aside for the Solar for Schools program I helped pass. With energy bills representing some of the largest expenses our school districts face, the program is an important way to help districts cut costs while reducing harm to the environment. I urge all districts to apply once the next round of grants opens. “To boost higher education, the proposed plan would keep last year’s scholarships in place and include a $60 million increase to fully fund the performance-based formula for Penn State, Pitt and Temple. It would also include a $40 million increase for PASSHE to continue keeping tuition flat. “Beyond Read more

 

Conklin bill to allow agents at the Office of State Inspector General to carry weapons clears committee, heads for House

(Feb 03, 2025) Rep. Scott Conklin

HARRISBURG, Feb. 3 – A strong bipartisan majority of the state House Judiciary Committee today approved state Rep. Scott Conklin’s bill that would permit agents working for the Office of State Inspector General to arm themselves on the job. Conklin said he introduced H.B. 36 to provide greater protection for OSIG agents, whose law enforcement duties often expose them to the risk of danger. “As members of a government watchdog agency, OSIG agents investigate fraud and other misconduct in government programs and operations,” Conklin said. “Like other law enforcement officers, they have the power to issue subpoenas and search warrants and to file criminal complaints. Unlike other officers, however, OSIG agents are not permitted to carry a weapon – even though their work often places them in dangerous situations. “These agents deserve the same protections as their counterparts in other law enforcement agencies to help them stay safe on the job. I’m pleased the committee has advanced my bill, and I’ll be urging my colleagues in the legislature to pass it quickly.” The committed approved the bill by a 25-1 vote. It now heads to the full House for consideration. Read more

 

Conklin encourages public schools to apply for ‘Solar for Schools’ grant before Jan. 31 deadline

(Jan 15, 2025) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Jan. 15 – With the application deadline approaching, state Rep. Scott Conklin is encouraging public schools in the 77 th Legislative District to apply to the Solar for PA Schools Grant Program. Conklin said the program is a win-win for school districts and other eligible public schools, which can realize substantial savings for little or no up-front costs. “There are no drawbacks for school districts, which only stand to benefit,” said Conklin, who co-sponsored legislation to establish Solar for Schools. “The program provides up to half the costs related to the purchase and installation of solar panels, while federal funding through the Inflation Reduction Act allows schools to recoup 30% to 50% of project costs. That means schools can realize substantially lower energy costs – some of the largest expenses they face – with a minimal outlay. “These projects save taxpayer dollars, they bring cleaner air and they create jobs for the community. It’s a win all around. I’m encouraging all public schools in our district to apply now, before the Jan. 31 deadline.” Conklin said eligible applicants include school districts, intermediate units, charter schools, career and technical schools and community colleges. Private schools are not eligible. Organizations including the PA Solar Center and Generation180 can offer schools free technical assistance as capacity Read more

 

Conklin takes oath of office to begin 10th term representing Pennsylvania’s 77th Legislative District

(Jan 07, 2025) Rep. Scott Conklin

HARRISBURG, Jan. 7 – State Rep. Scott Conklin took the oath of office today at the state Capitol to begin his 10 th term representing Pennsylvania’s 77 th Legislative District. Conklin said he is looking forward to starting work in the 2025-26 legislative session and will continue to focus on strengthening the district’s public schools, keeping resources flowing to first responders, bringing new dollars home to fund district projects, and passing measures to address domestic violence. “The new term gives us a new chance to advocate for our communities, to ensure residents’ voices are heard in Harrisburg and to make progress on bills that can improve life in the district,” said Conklin, D-Centre. “In the months ahead, I will be working to ensure that our public schools receive every dollar to which they’re entitled – for education and mental health resources as well as facility improvements that make our schools safer and healthier.” Conklin said he hopes to see more public schools in the district embrace the recently enacted Solar for PA Schools Program. “The program is a great deal for our schools,” Conklin said. “By tapping into state and federal funding, they can implement the technology with minimal to no project costs and reap substantial energy savings.” Conklin said he will also continue his legislative efforts to reduce domestic violence in the state. Read more

 

Takac sworn in to second term representing state’s 82nd Legislative District

(Jan 07, 2025) Rep. Paul Takac

HARRISBURG, Jan. 7 – State Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, proudly took the oath of office today, officially beginning his second term representing the 82nd Legislative District. The ceremony took place at the state Capitol, where Takac was joined by family, friends and colleagues. “I am deeply honored to continue serving the people of the 82nd District,” said Takac. “Our community has once again placed their trust in me, and I am committed to continue working tirelessly on their behalf. Together, we will address the many challenges we face and seize the opportunities ahead to continue delivering real results for the people and communities of Centre County and the commonwealth.” During his first term, Takac focused on key issues such as education, health care, economic development and sustainability. He successfully advocated for historic funding increases for our local public schools, expanded access to affordable health care and supported initiatives that create jobs and economic opportunity while continuing to guarantee Pennsylvanians’ constitutional right to clean air and water. Looking ahead, Takac intends to build on these accomplishments and tackle new priorities, including renewable energy and natural resources, innovative economic and infrastructure investments and ensuring liberty and justice for every Pennsylvanian. “We have made significant progress, but there is still much work to be done,” Read more

 

Merski takes oath to begin fourth term representing 2nd Legislative District

(Jan 07, 2025) Rep. Robert Merski

HARRISBURG, Jan. 7 – State Rep. Bob Merski, D-Erie, proudly took the oath of office today, marking the beginning of his fourth term representing the 2 nd Legislative District. With a steadfast commitment to serving district residents, Merski is eager to continue his work in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. “As we embark on this new term, I’m so excited to roll up my sleeves and get back to work for you,” Merski said. “I remain dedicated to advocating in Harrisburg for the needs and priorities of our Erie community. Together, we will build on the momentum we have established on issues like affordability, economic growth, improved education and enhanced public safety for all residents.” Throughout his previous terms, Merski has passionately championed workers’ rights, secured historic funding for education initiatives and fostered community development. He looks forward to building on these efforts and addressing new challenges in the upcoming legislative session. Merski also expressed his gratitude to the constituents who have entrusted him with this responsibility. “Thank you to the people of Erie County for your continued support and trust,” Merski said. “I dedicate myself to you. I am committed to working tirelessly on your behalf and ensuring that our voice is heard in Harrisburg. “As always, we're here to help you. Visit our district office at 3921 Buffalo Rd. Read more

 

Conklin: Nearly $900,000 secured to boost Centre County resources for crime survivors and at-risk youth

(Dec 18, 2024) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Dec. 18 – More than $892,000 is coming back to Centre County to bolster programs and resources for crime survivors and at-risk youth, reduce recidivism and fund probation and parole services, state Rep. Scott Conklin announced today. Conklin, D-Centre, said five grants awarded through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency will support essential programs for those served by the criminal justice system. “A lot of hard work and vigilance goes into protecting the rights of crime victims, supporting at-risk youth, and providing effective probation and parole services,” Conklin said. “The new funding will help keep essential programs in place so that our county’s dedicated judicial, law enforcement, medical and social service professionals can continue delivering the best possible services.” Conklin said the funding by source includes: JJDCP – State Violence and Delinquency Prevention Program Funds $391,764 to the Pennsylvania State University for implementation of the Standardized Program Evaluation Protocol, which helps determine effectiveness of juvenile delinquency prevention methods. CACAC- State Endowment Act – Prevention Funds $200,000 to Centre County Youth Service Bureau for Project Safe and Smart, which educates youth and parents about child sexual abuse and body safety. VSAC – Centre County $147,757 to Centre County Commissioners Read more

 

Conklin: Advanced Powder Products secures nearly $3 million to rebuild Rush Township facility damaged in fire

(Dec 05, 2024) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Dec. 5 – Two low-interest loans totaling $2.9 million will allow major area employer Advanced Powder Products to rebuild its Rush Township production facility that was severely damaged by fire last year, state Rep. Scott Conklin announced today. Conklin said the funding to the metal injection molding and 3D metal printing manufacturer includes a 15-year, $2.25 million loan at a 3.75% reset interest rate and a 7-year, $700,928 loan at a 4.75% fixed interest rate – both awarded through the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority. “The new funding is terrific news for APP and our entire region,” Conklin said. “The 2023 fire to the Rush Township facility caused extensive damage, interrupted production, affected jobs and resulted in heavy losses. The new funding will allow them to build a new 29,000-square-foot production facility at their Enterprise Drive location and purchase new precision machinery, robotics and other automated equipment. “It’s going to be exciting seeing this dynamic manufacturer rebuild to former capacity – and seeing those jobs and economic benefits flowing back to our region.” Conklin said the project will result in the creation of 15 new jobs and the retention of 165 full-time jobs. Administered by the Department of Community and Economic Development, PIDA provides low-interest loans and lines of credit for eligible businesses Read more

 

Conklin: Over $900,000 secured for District 77 school security

(Dec 03, 2024) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Dec. 3 – Schools in the 77 th Legislative District will benefit from more than $900,000 in new funding for school security and mental health resources, state Rep. Scott Conklin announced today. Conklin said the grants – awarded through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency from funding secured in the 2024-25 budget – include nearly $760,000 in noncompetitive grants to public schools and $148,000 in competitive grants to nonpublic schools. “A lot goes into maintaining a strong school security plan, from policies and protocols like reporting and safety drills to resources like personnel, equipment and building modifications, to programs and supports addressing mental health,” Conklin said. “Thanks to this new funding, our schools will have the resources needed to ensure students and staff have the safety, peace of mind and supportive environment they deserve.” Conklin said noncompetitive grants to public schools include: State College Area School District – $228,146. Tyrone Area School District – $131,554. Philipsburg-Osceola Area School District – $130,786. Bald Eagle Area School District – $128,948. Centre Learning Community Charter School – $70,000. Young Scholars of Central PA Charter School – $70,000. Competitive grants to nonpublic schools include: Soaring Heights School State Read more

 

Conklin: Over $900,000 secured for District 77 school security

(Dec 03, 2024) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Dec. 3 – Schools in the 77 th Legislative District will benefit from more than $900,000 in new funding for school security and mental health resources, state Rep. Scott Conklin announced today. Conklin said the grants – awarded through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency from funding secured in the 2024-25 budget – include nearly $760,000 in noncompetitive grants to public schools and $148,000 in competitive grants to nonpublic schools. “A lot goes into maintaining a strong school security plan, from policies and protocols like reporting and safety drills to resources like personnel, equipment and building modifications, to programs and supports addressing mental health,” Conklin said. “Thanks to this new funding, our schools will have the resources needed to ensure students and staff have the safety, peace of mind and supportive environment they deserve.” Conklin said noncompetitive grants to public schools include: State College Area School District – $228,146. Tyrone Area School District – $131,554. Philipsburg-Osceola Area School District – $130,786. Bald Eagle Area School District – $128,948. Centre Learning Community Charter School – $70,000. Young Scholars of Central PA Charter School – $70,000. Competitive grants to nonpublic schools include: Soaring Heights School State Read more

 

Burns: Over $400,000 secured to fund safety resources for District 72 nonpublic schools

(Nov 27, 2024) Rep. Frank Burns

EBENSBURG, Nov. 27 – New security resources are coming to nonpublic schools in the 72 nd Legislative District, thanks to more than $400,000 in new grant funding, state Rep. Frank Burns announced today. Burns said the funding – which includes grants to seven private schools in the district – was awarded under a competitive grant program administered by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency’s School Safety and Security Committee. “A safe, secure place to learn is as essential to students as the curriculum and educational resources they receive,” Burns said. “The new PCCD funding will allow administrators at nonpublic schools in our district to meet specific security needs they have identified so they can provide students and staff the safest possible learning environment – and the peace of mind that goes with knowing they are safe.” Burns said the schools and funding include: Bishop Carroll Catholic High School - $70,600. Bishop McCort Catholic Academy (HS campus) – $75,000. Bishop McCort Catholic Elementary (West Campus) - $75,000. Bishop McCort Catholic Elementary School (East Campus) - $75,000. Cambria County Christian School - $59,667 Center for Achievement - $24,000 Holy Name School – $39,500 The funding is part of a package of Read more

 

Burns launches holiday toy drive

(Nov 27, 2024) Rep. Frank Burns

EBENSBURG, Nov. 27 – State Rep. Frank Burns is partnering with the Toys for Tots Program to collect holiday gifts for economically disadvantaged area children. Burns, D-Cambria, said he and his staff are accepting donations of new, unwrapped toys at his offices in Johnstown ( Lower Yoder Township) and Ebensburg through Dec. 13. “Toys for Tots started with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve nearly 80 years ago with the goal of bringing joy and hope to economically disadvantaged kids during Christmas,” Burns said. “With prices high and budgets tight, that mission is still important. I’m urging anyone who would like to donate to bring new, unwrapped toys to my offices in Lower Yoder Township or Ebensburg.“ Burns said residents wishing to donate should bring unwrapped toys, stuffed animals, books, puzzles, games, coloring books and other gifts to one of the following office locations: 535 Fairfield Ave. Johnstown (Lower Yoder Township), PA 15906 123 West High St. Ebensburg, PA 15931 Residents with questions may call the Johnstown office at 814-536-8400 or the Ebensburg office at 814-472-8021. Read more

 

Burns launches annual food drive

(Nov 26, 2024) Rep. Frank Burns

EBENSBURG, Nov. 26 – State Rep. Frank Burns has launched his annual food drive and is collecting nonperishable food items at his Ebensburg and Lower Yoder Township offices now through Dec. 13 to help area families in need during the holiday season. Burns said the items collected will be delivered to local food banks. “With the high price of groceries, keeping nutritious food on the table can be a challenge for many families, especially during the holidays,” Burns said. “Our local food banks are an important resource, but supplies often become depleted this time of year. To help keep them stocked, my office hosts an annual food drive, and our generous community always steps up to pitch in. “I’m encouraging everyone who wishes to donate to bring nonperishable food items – including canned and boxed goods – to my offices in Lower Yoder Township or Ebensburg. Your donation will make a difference for a neighbor in need.” Burns’ Johnstown (Lower Yoder Township) office is located at 535 Fairfield Ave., and his Ebensburg office is located at 123 W. High St. Residents with questions may call the Johnstown office at 814-536-8400 or the Ebensburg office at 814-472-8021. Read more

 

Conklin: State College Borough secures $250k for transit station study

(Nov 18, 2024) Rep. Scott Conklin

STATE COLLEGE, Nov. 18 – A $250,000 grant from the Department of Community and Economic Development will fund a comprehensive study of State College Borough’s 50-year-old transit station, state Rep. Scott Conklin announced today. Conklin said the funding will lay the groundwork for important upgrades and improvements to make the station more accessible and inclusive. “Easy access to transportation is essential for quality of life, but many of our older facilities, including State College Borough’s 50-year-old transit stop, are not as accessible and user friendly as they could be for seniors and residents with disabilities,” Conklin said. “The new funding will allow the borough to study the station’s current design and determine what upgrades and improvements can be made, with an eye toward making this essential transportation hub larger, more traffic-friendly and more inclusive for all riders.” Conklin said that after the study is completed, the borough will have the information it needs to move forward with project work. More information about DCED is available here: https://dced.pa.gov/ Read more

 

Bizzarro: Low-interest state loan will retain, grow jobs in Erie County

(Nov 15, 2024) Northwest Delegation

“Growing our economy isn’t just an accident, it often comes from careful investment by both companies and the state,” said Bizzarro. “I’m glad to see this affordable loan be approved, and for local companies to benefit.” Read more

 

Pennsylvania Houses passes Conklin bill to regulate virtual currency
17 hours ago

House passes Conklin bill to allow agents at the Office of State Inspector General to carry weapons
Mar 18, 2025

Burns encouraging area high school seniors to apply for PA House Scholarship
Feb 27, 2025

Conklin: Nearly $400,000 secured for Patton Township transportation improvements
Feb 24, 2025

Conklin: More than $115,200 awarded to District 77 fire and EMS companies
Feb 20, 2025

Conklin: Proposed budget boosts education, real-world needs
Feb 05, 2025

Conklin bill to allow agents at the Office of State Inspector General to carry weapons clears committee, heads for House
Feb 03, 2025

Conklin encourages public schools to apply for ‘Solar for Schools’ grant before Jan. 31 deadline
Jan 15, 2025

Conklin takes oath of office to begin 10th term representing Pennsylvania’s 77th Legislative District
Jan 07, 2025

Takac sworn in to second term representing state’s 82nd Legislative District
Jan 07, 2025

Merski takes oath to begin fourth term representing 2nd Legislative District
Jan 07, 2025

Conklin: Nearly $900,000 secured to boost Centre County resources for crime survivors and at-risk youth
Dec 18, 2024

Conklin: Advanced Powder Products secures nearly $3 million to rebuild Rush Township facility damaged in fire
Dec 05, 2024

Conklin: Over $900,000 secured for District 77 school security
Dec 03, 2024

Conklin: Over $900,000 secured for District 77 school security
Dec 03, 2024

Burns: Over $400,000 secured to fund safety resources for District 72 nonpublic schools
Nov 27, 2024

Burns launches holiday toy drive
Nov 27, 2024

Burns launches annual food drive
Nov 26, 2024

Conklin: State College Borough secures $250k for transit station study
Nov 18, 2024

Bizzarro: Low-interest state loan will retain, grow jobs in Erie County
Nov 15, 2024