Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick is determined to phase out using police to monitor and direct traffic at roadside construction sites. Patrick stated that by using civilian employees instead, the state could save $100 million over the next 20 years. Police unions are decrying the plan, however, arguing that the use of civilians could jeopardize roadside safety around construction sites, and that police are better trained and prepared to handle potential hazards.
See "Patrick moves forward with plan to use civilian flaggers", Steve LeBlanc, The Boston Globe, August 6, 2008