Officials say there is a "critical shortage" of Iowa State Troop - WGEM.com: Quincy News, Weather, Sports, and Radio

Have you seen less state troopers on roadways in Iowa???

Officials say that's because budget cuts in recent years have led to a statewide shortage of officers on duty.

Officials say their biggest concern is the overnight shift.

In District 13 that serves Lee County and ten other counties, there are no troopers on duty overnight.

Iowa State Troopers Association officials say they had an independent research study that concluded the state needs an additional 87 troopers statewide to do their job effectively.

The association is now proposing new legislation that would free up money to hire new troopers.

Some Iowa residents say they think more troopers are needed on state roadways.

"I would hate to do away with the night time or any of the troopers. They are all needed," said Susan Mangels.

"People being on the roads at that time of night maybe going to work, coming home from work, having car trouble. There's all kinds of situations that could come up that we need law enforcement out there," said Joann Koller.

The association is requesting to hire 29 new troopers each year for the next three years.

Officials say that would cost $4.3 million per year.