ALBANY – Facing a local and statewide shortage of law enforcement across the board, New York State officials have given the nod to expand eligibility for New York State Police applicants.

A request of the NYS Police was approved by Gov. Kathy Hochul on Tuesday, clearing the way for the agency to raise the maximum age to apply to become a New York State Trooper from 29 to 34.

The change is just one of several that state police have made in order to attract and retain officers. More than $66 million was approved in the state budget earlier this year to fund more NYS Police Academy classes, and the agency has revamped its recruitment program to recruit more potential female and minority officers.

The shortage of state police mirrors local shortfalls in law enforcement as area departments struggle to retain officers. Staffing issues at the City of Norwich Police are straining the department’s overtime budget as Police Chief Reuben Roach explores ways to bring overtime expenses down and prevent officer burnout.

At the Chenango County Correctional facility, Sheriff Ernest Cutting says there are six empty part-time staff positions and six full-time. The Sheriff's Office has started accepting corrections officer applications from 18-year-old high school graduates to bolster recruitment numbers.

In the meantime, state police are trying to entice prospective officers in its efforts to improve public safety.

“By raising the maximum age of new recruits, we are widening the pool of people who can help us with this incredibly important work,” Hochul said in a statement on Tuesday. “After doubling the number of graduating classes from New York State Police Academy starting next year, this new rule will help the state recruit more troopers and protect the people of New York.”

The NYS Police offer a starting salary of $59,612 with full benefits and retirement for eligible applicants who are a US citizen aged 20-34 and have a high school diploma or equivalent. Salary increases to $84,331 after one year of service.