Louisiana GOP Gov. Jeff Landry has declared a state of emergency due to a police officer shortage.

Landry’s executive order issued Thursday lifts limits on how many new employees Louisiana sheriffs can hire and on payroll increases for their departments.

Landry, who previously had a career in law enforcement, said that police departments in the state are experiencing record-low employments “resulting in increased crime and less public safety.” As of July, sheriff’s offices statewide were down 1,800 deputies, Landry said.

Earlier this month, Landry presented his first proposed state budget that included tens of millions in additional dollars for public safety. At least $32 million would fund various State Police initiatives, including expanding State Police presence in New Orleans, a uniform allowance increase and an independent review of the department, The Times-Picayune/The New Orleans Advocate reported.