Oklahoma is experiencing a law enforcement staffing crisis. New law will retain experienced staff

Oklahoma is experiencing a law enforcement staffing crisis. Fortunately, legislators passed a measure that will help recruit and retain officers over the next several years.

Senate Bill 102 increases retirement benefits for police officers and incentivizes seasoned veterans to remain on the force.

This is critical for ensuring public safety. The national narrative surrounding modern law enforcement has, unfortunately, made some people less likely to serve in the profession, so retention of existing officers is more important than ever before.

We expect this new law will keep 300 to 400 experienced, well-trained officers on the job over the next three years. We can now ensure communities will have the police officers they need to respond to 911 calls, crimes and other investigations.

More: State lawmakers override five gubernatorial vetoes as session ends

This investment also will pay dividends for many years to come. A well-deserved increase in benefits will help law enforcement agencies compete with surrounding states for the most-qualified applicants.

Importantly, SB 102 is fiscally responsible. It will not cost Oklahoma taxpayers any additional money, and the long-term health of the state’s Police Pension and Retirement Fund will not be jeopardized.

State Sen. Jessica Garvin and Rep. Steve Bashore crafted a conservative, broadly supported measure to make life better for all Oklahomans ― especially those who wear a badge and serve their communities.

On May 21, Gov. Stitt vetoed SB 102, but the House and Senate demonstrated their overwhelming support and overrode that action on May 29. This is exactly how responsible lawmakers should respond to sensible, practical measures. Being pro-business means being pro-public safety. This is common sense.

SB 102 is an example of how government policy can truly make our state a better place to live. On behalf of police officers across the state ― and the people we serve and protect ― thank you to our elected officials for doing what’s right.

Mark Nelson is president of the Oklahoma Fraternal Order of Police.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma law enforcement crisis gets relief from new law