(WHTM) — A Pennsylvania lawmaker proposed a bill that would allow public housing authorities in several Pennsylvania cities to form their own police forces.

The legislation, introduced by state representative Robert Freeman (D-136), aims to help smaller cities in Pennsylvania deal with high crime rates. The bill would apply to the Commonwealth's 53 third-class cities, which include Harrisburg, Lancaster, Lebanon, York, and others.

Housing authority police would focus on safety in public housing projects. Freeman said officers would have the same training and accreditation required for municipal officers under state law, and funding would come from the housing authority budget.

"Philadelphia and Pittsburgh housing authorities already have this ability under current law, but smaller cities in the state often face some of the same problems with criminal activity that larger cities do," said Freeman. "All public housing authorities should have the ability to set up their own police force in order to better combat crime."

Public housing authorities wouldn't be required to form a police force under the bill but would have the option if deemed necessary.

"Some authorities may choose to simply hire a detective rather than create a full-blown police force," Freeman said. "Either way, they could determine what would be the most appropriate approach to enhancing law enforcement efforts and better overall public safety."