By Drew’s Cop Shop Editorial Staff
When you’re on the highway and see aggressive driving, or people speeding, you call *347. The Telecommunicator takes your info and says they’ll relay it to the Troopers in the area. The problem is, that the nearest Trooper is a long way away due to the staffing shortages FHP is facing.
Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) is facing a critical staffing shortage that poses significant risks to public safety and the well-being of its officers. Currently, the FHP is short about 200 officers, with some regions experiencing even more severe shortages. This understaffing not only endangers the lives of troopers but also compromises the safety of Florida’s residents and visitors.
The Case for Hiring 1,000 New Troopers
To address this pressing issue, the state of Florida must take immediate action by hiring 1,000 new state troopers. This increase in personnel will ensure that the FHP can adequately cover its vast jurisdiction, respond promptly to emergencies, and maintain a visible presence on the state’s highways. With Florida’s population continuing to grow, the demand for law enforcement services is higher than ever. More troopers on the road will lead to quicker response times, reduced crime rates, and enhanced traffic safety.
Starting pay increased to $65,000.
In addition to increasing the number of troopers, it is imperative to raise the starting pay for FHP officers to $65,000. Currently, Florida troopers are among the lowest-paid state police officers in the country, with starting salaries as low as $52,500. This low pay makes it challenging to attract and retain qualified candidates, leading to high turnover rates and further exacerbating the staffing crisis. By offering a competitive salary, Florida can attract top talent, reduce turnover, and ensure that troopers are fairly compensated for their vital work.
Increasing Salaries for All Troopers
To maintain fairness and morale within the FHP, it is essential to increase the salaries of all existing troopers to coincide with the new starting salary of $65,000. This adjustment will ensure that experienced troopers are adequately rewarded for their service and dedication, preventing potential dissatisfaction and attrition among the ranks. A comprehensive salary increase will also demonstrate the state’s commitment to supporting its law enforcement officers and recognizing their invaluable contributions to public safety.
Funding the Initiative
Florida is in a strong financial position, with a projected budget surplus of approximately $7.02 billion for the fiscal year 2024-25. This surplus provides a unique opportunity to invest in public safety without burdening taxpayers. The state can allocate a portion of this surplus to fund the hiring of new troopers and the proposed salary increases. Additionally, increasing fines for traffic violations and other offenses can generate additional revenue to support this initiative.
Investing in the Florida Highway Patrol by hiring 1,000 new troopers and raising their starting pay to $65,000 is not just a matter of fairness; it is a necessity for public safety. With a budget surplus and the potential for increased revenue from fines, Florida has the means to make this investment. By doing so, the state will ensure that its highways are safer, its troopers are better supported, and its residents can feel secure knowing that their law enforcement agencies are well-staffed and adequately compensated.
We call upon our elected leaders in Tallahassee to take up this issue as soon as possible or Governor DeSantis call for a special session. Public safety is of the utmost importance in a state that bills itself as a ‘Law and Order” state. Let’s pay the Troopers!
Great ideas. Just want to make a note that FHP does not get any of the money from issuing citations. That money goes to the county the citation was issued in.