HERSHEY – Gov. Tom Corbett has applauded efforts by the state legislature to support funding for the Pennsylvania State Police, including two new cadet classes.
Standing behind the governor on the steps of the State Police Academy in Hershey yesterday were some of the 101 new cadets scheduled to graduate in December as well as 78 additional cadets expected to graduate in March 2013.
“The importance of the job you are about to undertake is made clear by this fact: This fine sharing bill, which will help pay for future cadet classes, passed unanimously in the state Senate and with an overwhelming majority in the House.” Corbett said. “It will provide millions of dollars annually for your training and it does so without a tax increase and in a way that directs services to the citizens of our state.”
Joined by state police Commissioner Frank Noonan, Sen. John Rafferty (R-Berks) and Rep. Mike Vereb (R-Montgomery), Corbett thanked all the members of the judiciary committee, including Rep. Ron Marsico (R-Dauphin), who helped pass legislation that will help continue funding for the state’s top law enforcement agency.
“We appreciate Corbett’s support in starting this additional cadet class,” Noonan said. “The governor certainly understands the importance of adding more troopers to the road to protect the citizens of this great commonwealth.”
Although the state is coping with dire financial difficulties, Corbett is committed to public safety and that includes supporting the state troopers who patrol and protect more than 80 percent of Pennsylvania.
State police project about 500 vacancies by June 2013 because of retirements and attrition. Consequently, funding is necessary to hire, train and maintain an adequate complement of enlisted personnel in the field.
A combined effort of Corbett’s budget and proceeds from municipal fine sharing will contribute to nearly 200 new troopers this year.
For more information, visit www.pa.gov.