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Higher gas prices might cost the Missouri Highway Patrol

The Missouri Highway Patrol says that if gas prices continue to rise, it might have to cut back on patrols. Dustin Blanchard has more from the state Capitol.

Missouri Highway Patrol spokesman Captain Chris Ricks says today's gas prices are within the department's budget.

But, he says that if prices continue to climb, the department will feel the crunch.

Ricks says that if gas prices jump dramatically, the department will have to cut back on the number of cars out and the number of miles officers can drive.

He says in the long run, Missourians might see less patrolmen on the road.

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Higher gas prices could cost the Missouri Highway Patrol. Dustin Blanchard has the story from the state Capitol.

Missouri Highway Patrol spokesman Captain Chris Ricks says if gas prices continue to rise, Missourians might see less patrolmen on the road.

Ricks says the department is currently within its fuel budget, but would definitely feel the effect of a jump in prices.

Ricks says the department is already understaffed.

And if the department makes the cuts, he says patrolmen will be less able to protect Missouri drivers.