The Pennsylvania State Police are seeking to expand their force, offering varied roles from law enforcement to music. Recently, legislation was introduced that aims to remove restrictions on the number of officers the state police can hire. The proposal seeks to address the growing demands on law enforcement and corresponds with the state’s population increase.
State Senator Marty Flynn has introduced a bill designed to repeal the existing cap on the number of state police troopers. He argues that current staffing levels fall short of meeting the demands posed by Pennsylvania’s expanding population and the increased responsibilities of the state police.
Since the last significant increase in the trooper complement in 2002, the population of Pennsylvania is projected to grow by approximately five percent by 2025. Despite this growth, the number of state police officers has only seen a modest increase. Flynn highlights that the General Assembly has only permitted a single increase, adding 100 troopers in 2023.
The need for more officers is underscored by the state police’s expanded coverage, which now includes 65 additional municipalities and 55 new legislative duties. A legislative document from the House Appropriations Committee previously noted that two-thirds of local police coverage in Pennsylvania is managed by state police, reflecting the scale of their responsibilities.
Flynn emphasized that the bill, supported by bipartisan cooperation, aims to allow for the hiring of a substantial number of additional officers. However, he acknowledged the challenges in recruiting new officers due to recent public scrutiny and declining interest in law enforcement careers.
The noble nature of the profession was echoed by Myles Snyder, communications director for the Pennsylvania State Police, who noted the dedication required to face public scrutiny while maintaining professionalism. Despite not commenting on pending legislation, Snyder outlined the benefits of joining the force, including competitive pay, numerous career paths, and significant community engagement opportunities.
Potential career avenues within the state police include roles in crime, tactical operations, forensic analysis, and community engagement. Opportunities also exist in media relations, school safety programs, bomb squad operations, and ceremonial units, showcasing the diverse roles available to recruits.
For those interested in joining the Pennsylvania State Police, Snyder encouraged visiting PATrooper.com for more information on the cadet selection process, including details on pay, duties, and requirements.