The Pennsylvania Senate has adopted a resolution to address the recruitment and retention challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in the state. Sponsored by Senators Wayne Langerholc, Jr. and Joe Picozzi, Senate Resolution 94 establishes a task force within the Joint State Government Commission. This task force will focus on finding solutions to fill vacancies for law enforcement officers, corrections officers, and prosecutors across Pennsylvania.
The main goal of the task force is to create actionable policy recommendations aimed at improving the state’s ability to attract and keep qualified individuals in essential public safety positions. Senator Langerholc emphasized the importance of having fully staffed law enforcement agencies: “Our communities are safer when law enforcement agencies are fully staffed with well-trained, dedicated professionals.”
Senator Picozzi highlighted the widespread nature of the recruitment and retention issue: “We are facing a growing crisis in police recruitment and retention, not just in Philadelphia but across the Commonwealth.” The task force is expected to identify staffing challenges’ causes and develop effective solutions.
The Joint State Government Commission, known for its non-partisan research work for the General Assembly, will oversee the task force’s activities. A comprehensive report containing findings and recommendations is scheduled for submission to the General Assembly by April 30, 2026.
