The Florida highway patrol got only one out of ten new troopers they've asked for since 1996. During the same time roadway crashes and deaths have increased. Representative Wiles says the state needs five hundred more troopers. Troopers say adding more manpower would shorten emergency response times. The highway safety proposal would also increase trooper's salaries.
Republican leaders say the idea is good.
But the money isn't there. Drivers say more troopers means safer roads. Others aren't so sure they like the proposal. This years budget doesn't look like it will be much better for Florida's troopers.