AUGUSTA, Maine (AP)   Law enforcement officers would be allowed to wear veterans’ insignia under a proposal that has been approved by the Maine Legislature.

The Maine Senate approved the proposal by Democratic Sen. Erin Herbig of Belfast on Wednesday. The bill would give law enforcement departments the ability to allow officers to wear insignia that identifies themselves to the public as veterans.

Herbig says the proposal would attract veterans to law enforcement careers. She cited a shortage of law enforcement officers in the state.

Maine’s laws don’t allow law enforcement officers or first responders to wear such insignia. Herbig’s proposal would apply to first responders, as well.

The proposal is headed for Democratic Gov. Janet Mills for potential signature.