LANSING, Mich. (WZMQ) – The Michigan State Police (MSP) are looking to hire new troopers, victims advocates, and analysts. Governor Whitmer’s 2026 budget proposal is targeted at attracting and retaining new talent for the force.
The numbers in the governor’s plan look to boost the number of recruits that attend the MSP training academies. It also includes funds to give existing troopers 20 percent raises, to help with retaining talent.
The director of MSP, Colonel James Grady, said a key part of the plan is the extra resources for victim services. $1.3 million to hire 8 new advocates to work with victims of violent crimes, sexual assault, and human trafficking.
“They provide critical support and community partnerships and we’re already seeing the impact statewide. Last year, 10 new advocates served more than 700 people in the first six months of the year.” Grady said. “The budget will ensure that we can strengthen our law enforcement workforce by hiring here at the MSP a 100 new recruits. It’s been difficult, very challenging in this profession to recruit good people, service-minded people that want to be involved in this profession.”
Grady said that with 8 more advocates, they could help 1000 more Michiganders gain access to life-saving services. The budget also includes a million for analysts that help in the Michigan Intelligence Operations Centers to help with investigations.
The state budget process is just beginning. Normally lawmakers pass the bills before July, but they have until the end of September to get the final budget to the governor.
