Landry declaration could lead to more officers, deputies here

An emergency proclamation by Gov. Jeff Landry is opening the door for additional hiring by the St. Mary Parish Sheriff's Office and other local police agencies.
On Friday, Landry declared a police officer shortage emergency, suspending rules that limit law enforcement agency hiring to 5% of the existing force from six months before to six month after a gubernatorial election The rule, enshrined in Louisiana law, is known as the "payroll padding" provision.
In an earlier interview, St. Mary Sheriff-elect Gary Driskell said the payroll padding rule was enacted to prevent sheriffs from hiring employees to serve as what amounts to campaign workers.
But the Louisiana Sheriff's Association said the rule prevents law enforcement offices from hiring needed officers. The association estimates that local and parish agencies are down about 1,800 officers.
"We applaud Governor Landry for highlighting the importance of the law enforcement profession and our state's desperate need to fill valuable front-line deputy positions," said Michael Ranatza, executive director of the Louisiana Sheriffs’ Association.
From Landry: "As a former police officer and sheriff's deputy, I understand the vital role our law enforcement officers play in our communities.
"Currently our state is facing a shortage of officers, resulting in increased crime and less public safety. Today's executive order, and the upcoming crime special session, will ensure our law enforcement officers are supported and we can begin to bring law and order back to our state."
In a Facebook post, the St. Mary Sheriff's Office said it hasn't been able to hire the staff members it needs.
"We applaud Governor Jeff Landry for recognizing the need for appropriate staff levels and the challenges we face in hiring law enforcement officers," the sheriff-elect said in the post.
"I believe this proclamation will pave the way to expand hiring measures which will result in adequate staffing for enhanced public safety. This act by the governor's office shows his commitment to public safety and recognition that our citizens want to feel safe in their communities."