Pat Burke

Patrick B. Burke is an American politician currently serving as a member of the New York State Assembly, representing the 142nd district. This district encompasses South Buffalo, the City of Lackawanna, and the towns of West Seneca and Orchard Park. A member of the Democratic Party, Burke has been active in local and state politics, focusing on issues such as public health, education, and environmental concerns.

Early life and career

Patrick Burke was born on June 22, 1984, in South Buffalo, New York. Growing up in this community, he developed a strong connection to the area, which would later influence his political career. Burke's early experiences in South Buffalo likely shaped his understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by his constituents.

Before entering state politics, Burke began his public service career at the local level. He was first elected to the Erie County Legislature in 2013, representing the 7th District. During his tenure in the county legislature, he focused on various initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for residents in Erie County. One of his notable achievements was sponsoring a bill that established New York's first ban on plastic microbeads in personal care products. This legislation, which took effect in February 2016, aimed to protect the environment by prohibiting the sale and distribution of these harmful microplastics.

In addition to environmental legislation, Burke was involved in efforts to enhance broadband access in the region. As co-chair of the Erie County Municipal Broadband Project Committee, he advocated for the creation of a regional municipal broadband network. The proposal emphasized the importance of affordable, high-speed internet access as a means to stimulate economic growth and improve property values in Erie County.

Burke also introduced significant legislation aimed at protecting vulnerable populations. He sponsored the Prevention of Emotional Neglect and Childhood Endangerment Act, which banned conversion therapy practices in New York. This law, enacted in March 2018, reflected Burke's commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of children.

Legislative service

Burke transitioned to the New York State Assembly after winning the election for the 142nd district on November 6, 2018. Since taking office, he has continued to advocate for policies that align with his priorities and those of his constituents. During the 203rd New York State Legislature, Burke co-sponsored several key pieces of legislation, including measures to expand voting access. These initiatives allowed for early voting and no-excuse absentee voting, as well as regulations on political donations from Limited Liability Companies.

In 2019, Burke played a significant role in the passage of the Child Victims Act, which extended the time frame for prosecuting criminal charges related to child sexual abuse and allowed victims to file civil lawsuits until the age of 55. This legislation was a critical step in addressing the needs of survivors and ensuring accountability for perpetrators.

Burke's legislative efforts also included the expansion of the conversion therapy ban statewide, building on his previous work at the county level. This initiative was signed into law by Governor Andrew Cuomo in January 2019, further solidifying New York's commitment to protecting LGBTQ+ youth from harmful practices.

Throughout his time in the Assembly, Burke has been vocal on various issues affecting his district and the state. In February 2019, he joined other Western New York officials in opposing cuts to state Aid and Incentives to Municipalities funding proposed in Governor Cuomo's budget. His advocacy for local governments reflects his dedication to ensuring that municipalities have the resources necessary to serve their communities effectively.

Burke has also focused on issues related to public health and safety. In April 2019, he introduced legislation that expanded the eligibility for compensation and funding for child victims through the New York Office of Victim Services. This legislation aimed to provide essential support for mental health counseling and other services for affected children.

In subsequent years, Burke continued to introduce and support legislation addressing various community needs. In November 2020, he was re-elected to the Assembly, running uncontested in the Democratic primary and facing a Republican challenger in the general election. His ongoing commitment to his constituents was evident in his efforts to secure funding for local schools and public libraries, as well as for the Lackawanna Fire Department.

In 2021, Burke introduced Assembly Bill A7564, which aimed to reduce single-use plastics within the State University of New York (SUNY) and City University of New York (CUNY) systems. This legislation was part of a broader effort to address environmental concerns and promote sustainability in educational institutions.

Policy focus and district

Burke's policy focus reflects the needs and priorities of his constituents in the 142nd district. His legislative agenda includes a strong emphasis on public health, environmental protection, education, and community safety. He has actively sought funding to improve local infrastructure and services, demonstrating his commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents.

In July 2022, Burke announced funding he secured for public libraries in his district, which was allocated for updates to library facilities and the acquisition of new technology. This initiative aimed to enhance educational resources and community engagement within the libraries.

Additionally, Burke has prioritized school safety, securing $1 million in funding for the West Seneca and Orchard Park School Districts. This funding is intended to improve safety measures within the schools, reflecting his commitment to creating a secure learning environment for students.

Burke's leadership extends to environmental issues as well. In August 2022, he was appointed chair of the Great Lakes Watershed Task Force, a role that underscores his dedication to protecting the Great Lakes and promoting sustainable practices in the region.

As of January 2024, Burke has been named chair of the Standing Committee on Cities in the New York State Assembly, further solidifying his influence in shaping urban policy and addressing the challenges faced by cities across the state.

Throughout his career, Burke has navigated various controversies, including discussions around public health policy during the COVID-19 pandemic and allegations from former staff members regarding his response to community issues. Despite these challenges, he continues to serve as a prominent figure in New York state politics, advocating for the interests of his constituents and working to address pressing issues in his district.