The Pennsylvania State Troopers Association is renewing its call to prioritize COVID-19 vaccinations for troopers.

Representing 4,300 active and retired troopers, the association renewed a call it made in January urging Gov. Tom Wolf to add troopers to the groups of people receiving vaccinations through the state's phased approach.

Dave Kennedy, association president, issued a statement Wednesday, the day Wolf added elementary school teachers, special-education teachers, staff, bus drivers and administrators to the list of those who can receive vaccinations, which includes people over age 65, health carer workers and people with certain health conditions.

“There are only 4,300 state troopers in Pennsylvania, but they are responsible for patrolling over 85% of our commonwealth. Thus far, over 700 troopers have been infected with nearly 1,000 department employees overall. An outbreak could cripple our department. Public safety should be a priority right now. The PSTA renews our call for the administration to vaccinate first responders, so they can focus on doing their jobs,” Kennedy said.

Read more in Friday's Butler Eagle.