A new policy developed by the Texas Department of Public Safety is enforcing state troopers to reduce the size of their waistlines.
Men will need to lose weight around their waist if it is over 40 inches (101 cm), and women if it's over 35 inches (88 cm).
They will also need to keep track of their weight loss and share it with the Department of Public Safety (DPS), reported The Dallas Morning News.
The Dallas Morning News reported that the DPS recorded 213 out of 4000 officers failed the waistline requirement and two out of the 213 also failed the physical fitness test.
The fitness test includes a 1.5-mile run (2.4 km), push-ups, and sit-ups.
Officers have said they will stick to the weight loss regime to remain on the force.
“I will drink no more than one diet soda each day," one officer said.
Another pledged to "drastically cut sugar intake in all its forms".
The Texas Department of Public Safety Officers Association is not happy with the new policy.
"DPS is continuing in its plan to harass, discipline, and even discharge outstanding officers for not meeting its physical fitness testing standards and appearance standards."
Department leaders claim trimming the waist is necessary for officers to have a commanding "presence" when dealing with the public.
The Dallas Morning News reported they have been trying to get overweight troopers to lose weight for years over health concerns such as obesity and cardiovascular problems.
The Dallas Morning News reported that DPS said officers can still be denied promotions, overtime, and even be removed from enforcement duties altogether if they do not lose weight by the end of the year.
