By Scott Arnold
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - As budget hearings continued on Capitol Hill Thursday, cuts are being proposed inside the Tennessee Highway Patrol that could put residents at risk.
The THP could have to slash up to 9 percent of its budget, which means 25 troopers could be fired. The job cuts would leave 14 counties basically without THP coverage.
"Troopers from other counties will have to respond to calls in these counties, this will result in a much greater response time," said Safety Commissioner Dave Mitchell.
Governor Phil Bredesen did something unique at the hearing. Instead of accepting the proposed cuts, like he has with other departments, the Governor wants to explore ways to keep from firing troopers.
"I think most of the legislature and most people would sit still for the notion of doing it to keep troopers patrolling counties and those kinds of things," said Bredesen.
The THP also runs the drivers license stations in the state. They are thinking about closing six drivers license stations across the state.
Bredesen is also open to the idea of increasing driver’s license fees.
The THP is working on a proposal on how they can raise the fees to not only get a drivers license, but also for a handgun permit as well. It's expected state lawmakers will debate and vote on this issue over the next few months.
In all, 143 people could be let go from the THP department.
email: sarnold@newschannel5.com
