Governor Cuomo is merging the state Park Police with the State Police.
The move is being made, in part, to address the soaring attendance numbers at parks across the Empire State.
Age restrictions have been waived for Park Police officers, allowing them to apply to become troopers should they meet the fitness requirements.
Those officers would also have to pass a background check, a drug test and a medical exam. Anyone who doesn't meet the guidelines -- or who doesn't want to apply -- will be able to keep their current job. The governor says the merger will help better protect people who visit state parks and historic sites.