Showing posts with label public safety. Show all posts
Showing posts with label public safety. Show all posts
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Governor to Sign Bath Salts Ban
A ban on hallucinogenic chemicals known as “bath salts” and synthetic marijuana is headed to Pennsylvania Governor Tom Corbett’s desk, and his spokesman, Kevin Harley, says the governor will sign the measure into law.
The unanimous Senate vote came days after the House approved the measure. The Pennsylvania District Attorneys Association had pushed for a statewide ban. Executive Director Richard Long says municipal and county laws weren’t enough. “[Abuse of bath salts has] taken off dramatically. Just really in the last six to nine months, the numbers have grown exponentially, literally. And it’s hit certain parts of the state harder than others,” he said, adding eastern and central Pennsylvania have seen more problems than the western part of the state.
A growing number of municipalities and counties had instituted bans, but Long said a statewide measure will be more effective. He added the new law will help solve two big problems. “First it was the synthetic marijuana. That was a problem. Then the bath salts came in, and the conduct of people – the behavior of people taking the bath salts became an even bigger issue than the people using synthetic marijuana. It was more outrageous, more dangerous behavior with the people talking bath salt.”
The law creates a penalty of up to five years in prison for possession of bath salts, with intent to sell. Users would face fines, and up to a year behind bars.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Synthetic Marijuana, "Bath Salts" to be Outlawed
A statewide ban of synthetic drugs called “bath salts” is one step from becoming law in Pennsylvania.
The House unanimously approved a Senate bill making the hallucinogenic chemicals illegal Monday afternoon, on a 201-0 vote.
During debate, Republican Ron Marsico explained the penalties the measure would impose. “Their first offense for possession with intent to deliver, or delivery, will result in five years in prison and a $15,000 fine,” he explained. “Simple possession of these substances will be a misdemeanor, and give them a maximum fine of $5,000 and one year in prison.” Penalties would double on a second offense. “As you can see, those who have no regard for those well-being of others, of our citizens, and those who are making huge profits off our citizens, will finally be held accountable, with enactment of this legislation,” said Marisco.
Several counties and municipalities have already enacted local bans. The measure would also criminalize synthetic marijuana, which is sold in some stores as incense.
Because the House changed its language, the measure now goes back to the Senate. But a Senate Republican spokesman says the chamber will likely concur, meaning the bill will head to Governor Corbett’s desk soon.
The House unanimously approved a Senate bill making the hallucinogenic chemicals illegal Monday afternoon, on a 201-0 vote.
During debate, Republican Ron Marsico explained the penalties the measure would impose. “Their first offense for possession with intent to deliver, or delivery, will result in five years in prison and a $15,000 fine,” he explained. “Simple possession of these substances will be a misdemeanor, and give them a maximum fine of $5,000 and one year in prison.” Penalties would double on a second offense. “As you can see, those who have no regard for those well-being of others, of our citizens, and those who are making huge profits off our citizens, will finally be held accountable, with enactment of this legislation,” said Marisco.
Several counties and municipalities have already enacted local bans. The measure would also criminalize synthetic marijuana, which is sold in some stores as incense.
Because the House changed its language, the measure now goes back to the Senate. But a Senate Republican spokesman says the chamber will likely concur, meaning the bill will head to Governor Corbett’s desk soon.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Local Vol. Fire Company Trains on Gas
Volunteer firefighters from Peter’s township and Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania crews were called to the township’s rec. center this week only to find out they were part of a training drill. “We call this a blind exercise,” said Columbia gas spokesperson Tom Cuddy, “There were immediately informed that this was an exercise and then told handle it as though it were a real live incident.”
The company holds 4-5 of the drills every year with local fire crews. “It’s essential the firefighters have the knowledge skills and equipment to safely respond to a natural gas incident because often they are the first responders to the scene,” said Cuddy.
The company offers classroom training as well. We are usually very pleased with how well the volunteer firefighters perform, said Cuddy. However, he stressed that the training is not the same training as firefighters will need to respond to accidents at gas wells.
The company holds 4-5 of the drills every year with local fire crews. “It’s essential the firefighters have the knowledge skills and equipment to safely respond to a natural gas incident because often they are the first responders to the scene,” said Cuddy.
The company offers classroom training as well. We are usually very pleased with how well the volunteer firefighters perform, said Cuddy. However, he stressed that the training is not the same training as firefighters will need to respond to accidents at gas wells.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Measure Would Ban Texting While Driving
For the first time, the Senate has passed a bill making texting while driving in Pennsylvania a primary offense.
On a 41-8 vote, the chamber approved a bill allowing police officers to pull a person over, for texting while driving. The measure makes talking on a hand-held phone while behind the wheel a secondary offense. “Every one of us in this room has driven either alongside or behind someone that we think is actually engaged in a DUI,” argued Democrat Jim Ferlo, during debate. “And when we look and pass them, and see what they’re actually doing, as they weave all over the road, and into the berm of the shoulder, we realize they’re not DUI. They’re actually text messaging.”
The House passed a “primary offense” ban last year, but the Senate watered the measure down, and the bill never became law. This is the strictest ban the Senate has passed, to date.
Even though the Senate bill limits talking while driving to a secondary offense, it was too much for eight lawmakers, including Republican Jake Corman. “I just don’t think the evidence is out there that adult drivers using hand-held cell phones is more distractive than other forms of distraction that are allowable on the roads,” he explained.
There are several competing cell phone bans working their way through the General Assembly, and it’s not clear which measure will see a vote next. House Republican spokesman Steve Miskin said his caucus will “take a look at [the measure] and talk to our members.”
33 states ban texting while behind the wheel. 9 have hand-held cell bans on the books.
On a 41-8 vote, the chamber approved a bill allowing police officers to pull a person over, for texting while driving. The measure makes talking on a hand-held phone while behind the wheel a secondary offense. “Every one of us in this room has driven either alongside or behind someone that we think is actually engaged in a DUI,” argued Democrat Jim Ferlo, during debate. “And when we look and pass them, and see what they’re actually doing, as they weave all over the road, and into the berm of the shoulder, we realize they’re not DUI. They’re actually text messaging.”
The House passed a “primary offense” ban last year, but the Senate watered the measure down, and the bill never became law. This is the strictest ban the Senate has passed, to date.
Even though the Senate bill limits talking while driving to a secondary offense, it was too much for eight lawmakers, including Republican Jake Corman. “I just don’t think the evidence is out there that adult drivers using hand-held cell phones is more distractive than other forms of distraction that are allowable on the roads,” he explained.
There are several competing cell phone bans working their way through the General Assembly, and it’s not clear which measure will see a vote next. House Republican spokesman Steve Miskin said his caucus will “take a look at [the measure] and talk to our members.”
33 states ban texting while behind the wheel. 9 have hand-held cell bans on the books.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Click It or Ticket in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh Police officers will be enforcing a “Click It or Ticket” policy from today through June 12.
The enforcement began today with a morning traffic stop on West Carson Street, near Station Square. Officers gave tickets to motorists not wearing seatbelts, and handed seatbelt information packets to everyone driving through.
Pittsburgh Police Officer Glen Aldridge says officers will be enforcing the “Click It or Ticket” policy all day and night, in all areas of the city, through Sunday, June 12.
Aldridge, a collision investigator, says he’s seen situations where seatbelts made the difference between life and death.
“Recently, I investigated a collision out in East Liberty where a car was struck. It was an SUV, and it rolled over, and two occupants were belted, and they actually walked away from the collision with no injuries whatsoever,” says Aldridge. “A few years ago, I investigated a collision of a similar nature. No-one in the vehicle was buckled. The car rolled over, one revolution, and a lady’s neck was broken. She was killed as a result.”
The Pittsburgh Policeman says he’d like to see driving without a seatbelt become a primary offense, so officers could pull over unbuckled drivers. Currently, it’s a secondary offense, meaning the driver must be pulled over for another reason before a ticket can be issued.
PennDOT Safety Press Officer Steve Cowan says last year, 524 people died in accidents without wearing seatbelts in Pennsylvania. Twenty-four of those deaths took place in Allegheny County.
The enforcement began today with a morning traffic stop on West Carson Street, near Station Square. Officers gave tickets to motorists not wearing seatbelts, and handed seatbelt information packets to everyone driving through.
Pittsburgh Police Officer Glen Aldridge says officers will be enforcing the “Click It or Ticket” policy all day and night, in all areas of the city, through Sunday, June 12.
Aldridge, a collision investigator, says he’s seen situations where seatbelts made the difference between life and death.
“Recently, I investigated a collision out in East Liberty where a car was struck. It was an SUV, and it rolled over, and two occupants were belted, and they actually walked away from the collision with no injuries whatsoever,” says Aldridge. “A few years ago, I investigated a collision of a similar nature. No-one in the vehicle was buckled. The car rolled over, one revolution, and a lady’s neck was broken. She was killed as a result.”
The Pittsburgh Policeman says he’d like to see driving without a seatbelt become a primary offense, so officers could pull over unbuckled drivers. Currently, it’s a secondary offense, meaning the driver must be pulled over for another reason before a ticket can be issued.
PennDOT Safety Press Officer Steve Cowan says last year, 524 people died in accidents without wearing seatbelts in Pennsylvania. Twenty-four of those deaths took place in Allegheny County.
Monday, May 30, 2011
"Good Samaritan" Bill in PA House
A bill granting partial immunity to underage drinkers who call the authorities when their friends’ lives are threatened due to alcohol is winning praise from student leaders.
Dan Florencio, the president of Penn State University’s Interfraternity Council, said he’s heard a similar story time after time. “Someone just appeared really, really sick, and people were just like, ‘oh, let him sleep it off.’ Because they don’t want to get anyone in trouble,” he explained. “They don’t want to implicate themselves or the person. So they just let them sleep it off, or brush it off, when really, something really bad could be happening to the person’s body, because of alcohol.”
The council represents 46 fraternities and sororities, which include more than 2,600 students.
The so-called “Good Samaritan” bill, which is currently in front of the House, would offer legal amnesty to underage drinkers who call 911 when their friend drinks too much.
Felicity Debacco Ernie, the state coordinator for Students Against Destructive Decisions, said her group supports the measure, and believes it would solve a recurring problem. “I think it is pretty real, and I think that it is a decision that, unfortunately, a lot of students are making, not to get the help, because they’re fearful of their own legal issues that will come into play then,” she said, adding, “ It’s a very serious consequence for people who are charged with underage drinking these days.”
The bill passed the Senate on a unanimous vote, but it’s not clear if or when the House will take it up.
Dan Florencio, the president of Penn State University’s Interfraternity Council, said he’s heard a similar story time after time. “Someone just appeared really, really sick, and people were just like, ‘oh, let him sleep it off.’ Because they don’t want to get anyone in trouble,” he explained. “They don’t want to implicate themselves or the person. So they just let them sleep it off, or brush it off, when really, something really bad could be happening to the person’s body, because of alcohol.”
The council represents 46 fraternities and sororities, which include more than 2,600 students.
The so-called “Good Samaritan” bill, which is currently in front of the House, would offer legal amnesty to underage drinkers who call 911 when their friend drinks too much.
Felicity Debacco Ernie, the state coordinator for Students Against Destructive Decisions, said her group supports the measure, and believes it would solve a recurring problem. “I think it is pretty real, and I think that it is a decision that, unfortunately, a lot of students are making, not to get the help, because they’re fearful of their own legal issues that will come into play then,” she said, adding, “ It’s a very serious consequence for people who are charged with underage drinking these days.”
The bill passed the Senate on a unanimous vote, but it’s not clear if or when the House will take it up.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Marathon Sunday: Tough Traffic, Better Course
Racers and supporters could be tied to their cell phones Sunday in an effort to get the latest information about the Pittsburgh Marathon and the runners. The Pittsburgh Marathon has rolled out several new cell phone-related technologies including something they are calling the Broadcast Emergency Alert Notification System or “BEAN.” “[Racers] will be able to put their cell phone numbers in and this will be our way of notifying runners of any changes in our course, any other changes that we have race weekend,” said race organizer Patrice Matamoros. The system was envisioned after a microwave over left near the finish line caused police to shut off a section of the course last year. Racers can also sign up their fans for text alerts. Every time the runner passes over a timing mat a text message will be sent including the time the runner crossed the mat and their estimated finish time, said Matamoros. It can also be linked to Facebook and Twitter accounts.
The new course starts at 6th and Liberty Downtown and runners will not have to make their first turn for three miles, giving tem a chance for a quick and easy start. The runners will finish on the North Shore near the new Stage A-E concert venue. “Our Runners are going to walk off into Gold Lot 1 and we also have a lot of the surrounding parking lots for a huge festival on race day,” said Matamoros.
Racers will also be kept up to date on weather conditions. The traditional series of color-coded flags will be used to let runners know when heat, humidity, sunshine and other factors are combining for dangerous conditions, however this year runners will also see the information on electronic signs posted throughout the course.
Organizers are encouraging racers to plan to arrive for the race by 5:00am. We know how the North Shore handles traffic for sporting events but it is unclear how the traffic will flow with everyone trying to park in a two hour time period, said Matamoros.
Getting around the city could be tough Sunday. A long list of timed road closures has been posted and routes to move motorized traffic in an out of the race loop can be found on the map provided by the Pittsburgh Marathon.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Hold Up in Castle Doctrine Bills
A bill clarifying and expanding the right to deadly self-defense is one vote away from becoming law in Pennsylvania, but it's facing a delay, due to political turf wars.
Both the House and Senate have passed identical measures, both referred to as "Castle Doctrine" bills. Right now, each chamber's leaders are waiting for their counterparts to act next.
Republican Representative Scott Perry, who authored the House bill, told 2nd Amendment supporters to push for action.
"I would urge that you contact your legislators, both in the House and the Senate. And more importantly, your legislative leaders in the House and Senate. And say, hey - look, put your egos aside. Perry's willing to put his aside. Alloway's willing to put his aside. Let's just make this thing law."
The Senate bill was written by Republican Richard Alloway. Perry made his comments at the Capitol's annual 2nd Amendment rally. Speaking at the rally, Kim Stolfer, the chairman of the Firearms Owners Against Crime group, urged lawmakers to move forward.
"We should not have to bargain for the right to bear arms, or the right to self-defense. Castle doctrine needs to be passed now."
The event drew large crowds in 2010 and 2009, but generated much smaller turnout this year.
Governor Corbett has said he'll sign whichever bill ends up on his desk. A similar measure passed the House and Senate last year, but was vetoed by Democratic Governor Ed Rendell.
Both the House and Senate have passed identical measures, both referred to as "Castle Doctrine" bills. Right now, each chamber's leaders are waiting for their counterparts to act next.
Republican Representative Scott Perry, who authored the House bill, told 2nd Amendment supporters to push for action.
"I would urge that you contact your legislators, both in the House and the Senate. And more importantly, your legislative leaders in the House and Senate. And say, hey - look, put your egos aside. Perry's willing to put his aside. Alloway's willing to put his aside. Let's just make this thing law."
The Senate bill was written by Republican Richard Alloway. Perry made his comments at the Capitol's annual 2nd Amendment rally. Speaking at the rally, Kim Stolfer, the chairman of the Firearms Owners Against Crime group, urged lawmakers to move forward.
"We should not have to bargain for the right to bear arms, or the right to self-defense. Castle doctrine needs to be passed now."
The event drew large crowds in 2010 and 2009, but generated much smaller turnout this year.
Governor Corbett has said he'll sign whichever bill ends up on his desk. A similar measure passed the House and Senate last year, but was vetoed by Democratic Governor Ed Rendell.
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Marathon Sunday: Tough Traffic, Better Course
Racers and supporters could be tied to their cell phones Sunday in an effort to get the latest information about the Pittsburgh Marathon and the runners. The Pittsburgh Marathon has rolled out several new cell phone-related technologies including something they are calling the Broadcast Emergency Alert Notification System or “BEAN.” “[Racers] will be able to put their cell phone numbers in and this will be our way of notifying runners of any changes in our course, any other changes that we have race weekend,” said race organizer Patrice Matamoros. The system was envisioned after a microwave over left near the finish line caused police to shut off a section of the course last year. Racers can also sign up their fans for text alerts. Every time the runner passes over a timing mat a text message will be sent including the time the runner crossed the mat and their estimated finish time, said Matamoros. It can also be linked to Facebook and Twitter accounts.
The new course starts at 6th and Liberty Downtown and runners will not have to make their first turn for three miles, giving tem a chance for a quick and easy start. The runners will finish on the North Shore near the new Stage A-E concert venue. “Our Runners are going to walk off into Gold Lot 1 and we also have a lot of the surrounding parking lots for a huge festival on race day,” said Matamoros.
Racers will also be kept up to date on weather conditions. The traditional series of color-coded flags will be used to let runners know when heat, humidity, sunshine and other factors are combining for dangerous conditions, however this year runners will also see the information on electronic signs posted throughout the course.
Organizers are encouraging racers to plan to arrive for the race by 5:00am. We know how the North Shore handles traffic for sporting events but it is unclear how the traffic will flow with everyone trying to park in a two hour time period, said Matamoros.
Getting around the city could be tough Sunday. A long list of timed road closures has been posted and routes to move motorized traffic in an out of the race loop can be found on the map provided by the Pittsburgh Marathon.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Pennsylvania Walks and Bike Summit Treads to Harrisburg
Lawmakers and Pennsylvania Walks and Bikes think they have a solution to the Commonwealth's transportation issues: walking and biking. Walks and Bikes held a summit in Harrisburg today to promote state legislation and policy supporting safe pedestrian and bicycle use on roads and elsewhere in communities. State Representative Michael Folmer (R-Lebanon) says that as the weather changes, the demand for walking and biking paths increase.
"It's imperative, I think, as we go forward with any future road plans and as we go do out road maintenance that we start including the bicyclist and the walkers in that planning because people are starting to do it more and more."
Folmer attributes the outdoor transportation movement to rising gas prices, going "green" and a desire for community camaraderie. The summit advocated for three pieces of legislation that focus on right of way for bicyclists and cracking down on motorists using cellphones while driving. Although Folmer did not have any statistics on pedestrian-driver or bicyclist-driver accidents in Pennsylvania, he did mention that safety is a number one priority when sharing the roads.
"It's imperative, I think, as we go forward with any future road plans and as we go do out road maintenance that we start including the bicyclist and the walkers in that planning because people are starting to do it more and more."
Folmer attributes the outdoor transportation movement to rising gas prices, going "green" and a desire for community camaraderie. The summit advocated for three pieces of legislation that focus on right of way for bicyclists and cracking down on motorists using cellphones while driving. Although Folmer did not have any statistics on pedestrian-driver or bicyclist-driver accidents in Pennsylvania, he did mention that safety is a number one priority when sharing the roads.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Stuck Barge Carrying Flammable Coal Oil
About 1,100 students of the Sto-Rox School District were evacuated by police because of one of the barges stuck at the train bridge near Neville Island is carrying flammable coal tar oil with the chemical benzene.
U.S. Coast Guard Lt. Alanna McGovern says the current on the Ohio River broke some of the wires connecting the barges to a towing vessel this morning. "the current then took the four barges down to the back channel of Neville Island when they came to rest on the railroad bridge."
Of the three other barges that broke loose this morning, one carrying steel coils sank, another carrying coal passed by and an empty barge is also stuck.
McGovern says that the barge has a double hull and does not appear to have been breached. She says that the coast Guard is working with the Army Corps of Engineers, and the Pittsburgh Department of Public Safety to free the barges.
U.S. Coast Guard Lt. Alanna McGovern says the current on the Ohio River broke some of the wires connecting the barges to a towing vessel this morning. "the current then took the four barges down to the back channel of Neville Island when they came to rest on the railroad bridge."
Of the three other barges that broke loose this morning, one carrying steel coils sank, another carrying coal passed by and an empty barge is also stuck.
McGovern says that the barge has a double hull and does not appear to have been breached. She says that the coast Guard is working with the Army Corps of Engineers, and the Pittsburgh Department of Public Safety to free the barges.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Legislation Deals With Cell Phones & Driving
The Pennsylvania House is once again taking a look at a distracted driving bill. But the measure in front of the Transportation Committee doesn’t go as far as the cell phone ban passed by the chamber last year.
Last session, nearly 200 House members voted for a measure making talking or texting while driving a primary offense. That means police could pull a driver over for using a hand-held cell phone, and nothing else.
However, this measure limits the penalty for distracted driving to a secondary offense. That isn’t enough for Democrat Eugene DePasquale of York County, who’s been pushing the issue for years. “If a secondary law happens, it’s not as if that’s bad. It’s just not as good as I think it could be,” he said. “And the reason why is, a primary law will enable someone – a police officer – to pull someone over for doing it, which could prevent the tragedy. As opposed to fining someone after the tragedy.”
Republican Chris Ross, who authored the new legislation, argued the primary vs. secondary debate is meaningless, and that lawmakers need to just make cell phone use while driving illegal, to start changing drivers’ habits. “It’s not good enough just to make it legislated,” he testified. “We have to actually get a change in behavior. And people’s behavior doesn’t change merely because we pass a law up here. It changes because you first say, this is wrong. We’re making it illegal. And then you follow that up with an aggressive campaign.”
The new measure goes beyond cell phones, increasing already-existing distracted driving fines by $50 if a driver is using “any electronic, electrical, mechanical, personal grooming device, food, drink, book or printed material.”
Last session, nearly 200 House members voted for a measure making talking or texting while driving a primary offense. That means police could pull a driver over for using a hand-held cell phone, and nothing else.
However, this measure limits the penalty for distracted driving to a secondary offense. That isn’t enough for Democrat Eugene DePasquale of York County, who’s been pushing the issue for years. “If a secondary law happens, it’s not as if that’s bad. It’s just not as good as I think it could be,” he said. “And the reason why is, a primary law will enable someone – a police officer – to pull someone over for doing it, which could prevent the tragedy. As opposed to fining someone after the tragedy.”
Republican Chris Ross, who authored the new legislation, argued the primary vs. secondary debate is meaningless, and that lawmakers need to just make cell phone use while driving illegal, to start changing drivers’ habits. “It’s not good enough just to make it legislated,” he testified. “We have to actually get a change in behavior. And people’s behavior doesn’t change merely because we pass a law up here. It changes because you first say, this is wrong. We’re making it illegal. And then you follow that up with an aggressive campaign.”
The new measure goes beyond cell phones, increasing already-existing distracted driving fines by $50 if a driver is using “any electronic, electrical, mechanical, personal grooming device, food, drink, book or printed material.”
Friday, April 15, 2011
State Rep. Takes on Violent Video Game
The game "School Shooter: North American Tour 2012" is the subject of a new resolution to create a state-wide parent awareness program. In the game, a player stalks and shoots fellow students and teachers in schools. Developed by Checkerboarded Studios, it was pulled from its website but is still available for viewing on YouTube and is planned for future release.
State Rep. Lawrence Curry (D-Montgomery, Philadelphia) says that if you think of it as a video game, it is pretty gruesome. "The figures, familiar figures are like a teacher and students, fellow classmates in a room. And you hear a bang and the blood shoots out of the head, sprays onto the walls in a couple of instances. Some go down, and that's pretty shocking."
Rep. Curry says that he understands that there are other video games out there but this one mimics real-life tragedies. "The tragedies of Columbine, Virginia Tech and Northern Illinois University are among the most horrible acts on campus in American history." He says "the lack of empathy this game shows for school shooting victims, their families, friends and other loved ones is upsetting and disrespectful."
Curry says that he plans to go through the schools to warn parents about the game. He says he already held held a meeting with superintendents, principals, and psychologists in his district to work out how to best deal with the game.
Curry's house resolution will alert parents and teachers about the pending release of the game, and remind parents to monitor their child's interaction with media. He says that it is a sticky issue because he hates censorship, but this game is too harmful and awful to let go without any warning.
State Rep. Lawrence Curry (D-Montgomery, Philadelphia) says that if you think of it as a video game, it is pretty gruesome. "The figures, familiar figures are like a teacher and students, fellow classmates in a room. And you hear a bang and the blood shoots out of the head, sprays onto the walls in a couple of instances. Some go down, and that's pretty shocking."
Rep. Curry says that he understands that there are other video games out there but this one mimics real-life tragedies. "The tragedies of Columbine, Virginia Tech and Northern Illinois University are among the most horrible acts on campus in American history." He says "the lack of empathy this game shows for school shooting victims, their families, friends and other loved ones is upsetting and disrespectful."
Curry says that he plans to go through the schools to warn parents about the game. He says he already held held a meeting with superintendents, principals, and psychologists in his district to work out how to best deal with the game.
Curry's house resolution will alert parents and teachers about the pending release of the game, and remind parents to monitor their child's interaction with media. He says that it is a sticky issue because he hates censorship, but this game is too harmful and awful to let go without any warning.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
PA House Votes Against Mandatory Sprinklers
The State House passed a bill that removes a mandate requiring automatic sprinkler systems in new one- or two-family homes.
The mandate, which took effect in January, forces construction companies to install sprinklers, similar to the ones in hotels, for the safety of residents. Once the temperature rises to a certain degree, the sprinklers shower water, allowing people to escape a fire.
Firefighters and other supporters of the sprinklers measure say the safety measure can save lives, but several state legislators argue that the bill could hold back new home sales.
Pennsylvania's construction code is updated automatically every three years when the International Code Conference approves construction standards. With amendments by the Senate, the state Construction Code Advisory Council would now need to opt into any changes before they can take effect.
Senator John Wozniak (D-Cambria County) voted to repeal the mandate and says requiring sprinklers in a house is unnecessary. "We're sitting here saying 'here's another hoop you have to jump through, here's another ordinance you have to take care of, here's another responsibility you have to pay for before we give you a permit to build a house.'"
Wozniak says requiring sprinklers in homes can add thousands to building prices, possibly leading to a decrease in new home sales.
The legislation now goes to Governor Tom Corbett; it's unclear whether he will sign it.
The mandate, which took effect in January, forces construction companies to install sprinklers, similar to the ones in hotels, for the safety of residents. Once the temperature rises to a certain degree, the sprinklers shower water, allowing people to escape a fire.
Firefighters and other supporters of the sprinklers measure say the safety measure can save lives, but several state legislators argue that the bill could hold back new home sales.
Pennsylvania's construction code is updated automatically every three years when the International Code Conference approves construction standards. With amendments by the Senate, the state Construction Code Advisory Council would now need to opt into any changes before they can take effect.
Senator John Wozniak (D-Cambria County) voted to repeal the mandate and says requiring sprinklers in a house is unnecessary. "We're sitting here saying 'here's another hoop you have to jump through, here's another ordinance you have to take care of, here's another responsibility you have to pay for before we give you a permit to build a house.'"
Wozniak says requiring sprinklers in homes can add thousands to building prices, possibly leading to a decrease in new home sales.
The legislation now goes to Governor Tom Corbett; it's unclear whether he will sign it.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
"Castle Doctrine" Passes PA House
Once again, a measure expanding the right to deadly self defense and eliminating a threatened person’s “duty to retreat” before defending himself has passed the Pennsylvania House by an overwhelming margin. The chamber approved the so-called “Castle Doctrine” bill on a 164-37 vote, after a lengthy and at times bizarre debate.
Democrats spent much of their floor time questioning Republican sponsor Scott Perry on hypothetical situations the bill would and wouldn’t cover. Noting the private property people can protect with deadly force includes motorized vehicles, Democrat Mike Gerber asked whether that would extend to motorcycles. “It’s a vehicle that moves people, it’s got a motor,” he reasoned. After Perry said Gerber’s assumption was correct, the Democrat continued, “Now it says, whether or not motorized. Would it also apply to a bicycle?”
“It does,” Perry replied. “However, solely relying on the definition isn’t enough, because the law also requires forcible entry. And it’s hard to establish how one forcibly enters a bicycle.”
Democrat Steve Santarsiero grilled Perry on whether people could shoot anyone who enters their home, asking, “the person against whom the force is going to be used has to both unlawfully and forcefully enter into a dwelling or residence, is that correct?” Yes, said Perry. “We’re trying to protect the individual who might be coming over to borrow a cup of sugar or an egg or something like that from being randomly shot by his or her neighbor, obviously.”
The hypotheticals reached their peak with this question from Democrat Margo Davidson: “If the gentleman from Butler County [Daryl Metcalfe] stood yelling, knowing that he’s a gun-toter, and I felt threatened, would I be protected under court law if I blew his brains out?” Speaker Sam Smith immediately chastised Davidson and struck her comment from the House record.
This incarnation of House Bill 40 is different from last year’s in a few key ways. The Pennsylvania District Attorneys Association opposed the vetoed measure last year, calling it a “defense attorney’s dream.” The group’s president, Ed Marsico, was worried the bill would make it easier for murder suspects to gain acquittals through self-defense arguments. The PDAA worked alongside Republican leaders to add new language to the new bill: now defendants need to legally own the guns they use to protect themselves, and need to visually spot a weapon on the aggressor before shooting. “The amendments make the bill much better – a little bit tighter – in that respect,” said Marsico. “We’re still concerned. I’m sure we’ll still see claims that individuals were acting in self-defense, claiming they did not have a duty to retreat, once this bill passes. But we hope to have limited them as much as possible.”
While House Bill 40 is different from last year’s legislation, it’s identical to the bill the Senate passed earlier this year. The House could have sent legislation to Governor Corbett’s desk by approving Senate Bill 273. Now, at least one more vote will need to take place. Chalk that up to turf battles. “It’s known across Pennsylvania as House Bill 40. It’s not known as some Senate bill,” said Perry, pointing to last year’s legislative battle, and later referring to the twin measure as “some Senate bill that somebody put their name on.” (That “somebody” is Republican Richard Alloway.) “With all due respect to the Senate and to Senator Alloway, we appreciate the support but there’s a lot of people that have a lot of vested interest and time over years,” said Perry.
Democrats spent much of their floor time questioning Republican sponsor Scott Perry on hypothetical situations the bill would and wouldn’t cover. Noting the private property people can protect with deadly force includes motorized vehicles, Democrat Mike Gerber asked whether that would extend to motorcycles. “It’s a vehicle that moves people, it’s got a motor,” he reasoned. After Perry said Gerber’s assumption was correct, the Democrat continued, “Now it says, whether or not motorized. Would it also apply to a bicycle?”
“It does,” Perry replied. “However, solely relying on the definition isn’t enough, because the law also requires forcible entry. And it’s hard to establish how one forcibly enters a bicycle.”
Democrat Steve Santarsiero grilled Perry on whether people could shoot anyone who enters their home, asking, “the person against whom the force is going to be used has to both unlawfully and forcefully enter into a dwelling or residence, is that correct?” Yes, said Perry. “We’re trying to protect the individual who might be coming over to borrow a cup of sugar or an egg or something like that from being randomly shot by his or her neighbor, obviously.”
The hypotheticals reached their peak with this question from Democrat Margo Davidson: “If the gentleman from Butler County [Daryl Metcalfe] stood yelling, knowing that he’s a gun-toter, and I felt threatened, would I be protected under court law if I blew his brains out?” Speaker Sam Smith immediately chastised Davidson and struck her comment from the House record.
This incarnation of House Bill 40 is different from last year’s in a few key ways. The Pennsylvania District Attorneys Association opposed the vetoed measure last year, calling it a “defense attorney’s dream.” The group’s president, Ed Marsico, was worried the bill would make it easier for murder suspects to gain acquittals through self-defense arguments. The PDAA worked alongside Republican leaders to add new language to the new bill: now defendants need to legally own the guns they use to protect themselves, and need to visually spot a weapon on the aggressor before shooting. “The amendments make the bill much better – a little bit tighter – in that respect,” said Marsico. “We’re still concerned. I’m sure we’ll still see claims that individuals were acting in self-defense, claiming they did not have a duty to retreat, once this bill passes. But we hope to have limited them as much as possible.”
While House Bill 40 is different from last year’s legislation, it’s identical to the bill the Senate passed earlier this year. The House could have sent legislation to Governor Corbett’s desk by approving Senate Bill 273. Now, at least one more vote will need to take place. Chalk that up to turf battles. “It’s known across Pennsylvania as House Bill 40. It’s not known as some Senate bill,” said Perry, pointing to last year’s legislative battle, and later referring to the twin measure as “some Senate bill that somebody put their name on.” (That “somebody” is Republican Richard Alloway.) “With all due respect to the Senate and to Senator Alloway, we appreciate the support but there’s a lot of people that have a lot of vested interest and time over years,” said Perry.
Monday, April 4, 2011
AAA Works to Remove Unsafe Car Seats
Car seats handed down or bought at garage sales can compromise a child's health if people don't know they're hazardous. So AAA is hosting a car seat "round up" in the North Hills.
Bevi Powell, spokeswomen for AAA, says that it is common for people to be using unsafe car seats. "It is economical so they try to share things, just like they hand-down clothing. But a car seat is something that really should not be handed-down because you don't know where the history is if you're buying it secondhand or if you're using it secondhand. Definitely worth the investment of purchasing a new one."
Powell says that there are many things that can make a car seat unsafe including if it has been used in a car crash, is more than six years old, is missing important parts and pieces, or is listed on the Recall/Defect list as needed to be destroyed. She says that if parents are unsure they can check for car seat recalls online.
The car seat "round up" will take place on April 5th from 4-6 p.m. in the North Hills at 7702 McKnight Road. Everyone who contributes a car seat will receive a free Happy Meal. More information about car and booster seat safety can be found at the AAA website.
Bevi Powell, spokeswomen for AAA, says that it is common for people to be using unsafe car seats. "It is economical so they try to share things, just like they hand-down clothing. But a car seat is something that really should not be handed-down because you don't know where the history is if you're buying it secondhand or if you're using it secondhand. Definitely worth the investment of purchasing a new one."
Powell says that there are many things that can make a car seat unsafe including if it has been used in a car crash, is more than six years old, is missing important parts and pieces, or is listed on the Recall/Defect list as needed to be destroyed. She says that if parents are unsure they can check for car seat recalls online.
The car seat "round up" will take place on April 5th from 4-6 p.m. in the North Hills at 7702 McKnight Road. Everyone who contributes a car seat will receive a free Happy Meal. More information about car and booster seat safety can be found at the AAA website.
Monday, March 7, 2011
Envelopes of Life Distributed
Pittsburgh Councilwoman Natalia Rudiak is trying to keep seniors a bit safer in an emergency. She has been visiting senior centers and high rises for the last few weeks handing out “Envelopes of Life.” In the envelope is a form that includes lines for the senior’s name, age, medical conditions, medications, doctors and more. “In those moments when you may be in an emergency, every single second counts and when a medic or other first responder is searching around in your purse or in the vicinity for any medications that might be causing a problem, that is vital time that is lost,” says Rudiak.
The envelope comes with a sticker to go on your door to alert emergency crews to look for the envelope and a magnet to use to hang the envelope on the refrigerator. City emergency response crews are trained to look for the data and some suburban crews take part in the same training. Rudiak suggests the envelopes are not just for seniors. She has one on her fridge and thinks anyone taking medication or with a medical condition, should have one as well.
You can get an envelope by contacting Rudiak’s office (412-255-2131) or the Emergency Medical Services Headquarters (412-622-6930.) You can also download one of the forms and make your own envelope.
Rudiak will be handing out envelopes and talking about the program at the Carrick Regency at 4pm today and at Gualtieri Manor in Beechview at 2pm Thursday the 10th.
The envelope comes with a sticker to go on your door to alert emergency crews to look for the envelope and a magnet to use to hang the envelope on the refrigerator. City emergency response crews are trained to look for the data and some suburban crews take part in the same training. Rudiak suggests the envelopes are not just for seniors. She has one on her fridge and thinks anyone taking medication or with a medical condition, should have one as well.
You can get an envelope by contacting Rudiak’s office (412-255-2131) or the Emergency Medical Services Headquarters (412-622-6930.) You can also download one of the forms and make your own envelope.
Rudiak will be handing out envelopes and talking about the program at the Carrick Regency at 4pm today and at Gualtieri Manor in Beechview at 2pm Thursday the 10th.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
PA Rep: Teens Need More Drive Time
State Rep. Kathy Watson of Bucks County says the bill she introduced this week would help to save the lives of young drivers. Her bill carries three main changes to the state’s driving laws. The first would extend the number of behind-the-wheel hours a permit holder needs before moving on to a driver’s licenses, from the current 50 hours to 65 hours. Watson says ten of the additional hours would have to be logged at night and the other five during “inclement weather.” “We have found in reviewing crashes for this age group, these are factors that occur, that often young people are not prepared to handle,” says Watson. She says she hopes parents will abide by the rules and not just sign off on the specialized hours. “If your child is really good at sports you get them out there to practice soccer or baseball, or if you’ve got the concert pianist in the family, or whatever it is, you work with them because you get better with practice,” says Watson, “this is the same thing and this has really deadly consequences if they don’t get that experience.”
The bill would also force anyone from birth to age 18 to wear a seatbelt while seated anywhere in the car and it would make that law a primary offense, which means a police officer could pull over a car based solely on that violation. Watson says more than 50-percent of all automobile accident fatalities among 16 to 18 year olds can be traced back to not wearing seatbelts.
Finally, the bill calls for the number of teens that can be in the car with a young driver to be limited to just one. “They can not text or they can put the cell phone away but they can’t tune out the others who are in the car with them talking, laughing, asking questions,” says Watson, “that is very difficult for a new driver to deal with and process all that is going on on the road around them.” Exceptions would be made for family members.
Watson says she will work hard to make sure the bill is not bogged down with amendments. She says while, issues such as texting while driving and the use of hand held cell phones are important, they should not be added to this bill. She says those items are better handled in stand-alone bills that impact all drivers, not just teens.
The bill would also force anyone from birth to age 18 to wear a seatbelt while seated anywhere in the car and it would make that law a primary offense, which means a police officer could pull over a car based solely on that violation. Watson says more than 50-percent of all automobile accident fatalities among 16 to 18 year olds can be traced back to not wearing seatbelts.
Finally, the bill calls for the number of teens that can be in the car with a young driver to be limited to just one. “They can not text or they can put the cell phone away but they can’t tune out the others who are in the car with them talking, laughing, asking questions,” says Watson, “that is very difficult for a new driver to deal with and process all that is going on on the road around them.” Exceptions would be made for family members.
Watson says she will work hard to make sure the bill is not bogged down with amendments. She says while, issues such as texting while driving and the use of hand held cell phones are important, they should not be added to this bill. She says those items are better handled in stand-alone bills that impact all drivers, not just teens.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
PA Revamps Megan’s Law Web
Pennsylvania’s Megan’s Law website has been upgraded by the PA State Police to now include what they believe is a more user-friendly interface. The website list information about registered sex offenders living in Pennsylvania. In the past, individuals have been able to search for offenders by community name or zip code. The site now allows users to enter an address and then search for offenders within a given radius. “It also has a Sondex feature that takes the name entered by the user and provides a list of individuals with that name and similar sounding names,” says PA State Police Spokesperson Jack Lewis.
The site continues to offer visitors a chance to submit a tip and it list sex offenders whose whereabouts are unknown. For each sex offender the site includes a picture, an address and the offense for which they were found guilty. Lewis says it also notes if they are considered to be “sexual offenders” or a “sexually violent predator.” It also lists if they are required to be registered for life or if they are only required to let the state know where they are for the next 10 years.
Lewis says State Police would like to add even more functionality. “We would like to be able to add an electronic community notification feature that would allow users to receive notifications about Megan’s Law offenders via email or text messages but in order for that to happen we would have to have some changes in the law by the state legislature,” says Lewis
Visitors to the website are forced to accept terms of use. “We certainly are concerned that people will misuse the site by locating a sex offender and then harassing them in some way,” says Lewis, “That would be a violation of the law.”
State police officials say the site gets about 7,000 hits a day.
The site continues to offer visitors a chance to submit a tip and it list sex offenders whose whereabouts are unknown. For each sex offender the site includes a picture, an address and the offense for which they were found guilty. Lewis says it also notes if they are considered to be “sexual offenders” or a “sexually violent predator.” It also lists if they are required to be registered for life or if they are only required to let the state know where they are for the next 10 years.
Lewis says State Police would like to add even more functionality. “We would like to be able to add an electronic community notification feature that would allow users to receive notifications about Megan’s Law offenders via email or text messages but in order for that to happen we would have to have some changes in the law by the state legislature,” says Lewis
Visitors to the website are forced to accept terms of use. “We certainly are concerned that people will misuse the site by locating a sex offender and then harassing them in some way,” says Lewis, “That would be a violation of the law.”
State police officials say the site gets about 7,000 hits a day.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Penn Hills High School Closed
Penn Hills High School students are being sent home this morning due to what 911 dispatchers calls a "police incident." School officials and Penn Hills Police are not commenting at this time. The District’s web site says “a threat was made to the Senior High School on February 2nd.” An Allegheny County 911 supervisor tells the Associated Press that the 911 center received a call about 7:30 this morning. The supervisor says local police are handling the situation. Students leaving the school say they were told there was some kind of bomb threat. Students were moved to the school's indoor athletic facility and students arriving in their own cars were being told to turn around and go home. Although ambulances were called, there are no reports of injuries and police have not said whether there have been any arrests. All other buildings in the District are running on a normal schedule.
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