This file photo from 2008 shows a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper approaching a vehicle after a traffic stop on Kansas Highway 10.

Topeka ? A $2 increase in Kansas vehicle registration fees would help pay for 75 more state troopers over the next three years under a proposal in a state House committee.

Kansas Highway Patrol’s superintendent, Col. Mark Bruce, told members of the House Transportation Committee on Thursday that the funding is needed to address low staffing, the Kansas City Star (http://bit.ly/1nCAotB ) reported. The fee also would provide continued funding for an annual recruit class of 15.

Bruce said the patrol’s 400 troopers are about 100 short of what’s considered full staffing.

The staffing shortage means dozens of counties have no troopers or only one assigned, and the fallout includes a drop in drunken driving and speeding arrests and longer response times, Bruce said.

Bruce warned that the patrol needs to be ready to respond to public safety emergencies such as active shooters and violent demonstrations.

“From my perspective, it’s not a matter of if but a matter of when,” Bruce said.

The current registration fee for most vehicles is $35 or $45, depending on vehicle weight.

Several law enforcement organizations voiced support for the plan at a committee hearing.

The Kansas Farm Bureau submitted written testimony opposing the funding of public safety activities using vehicle registration fees.