City police officers could be working longer hours, if the city implements the ideas from a new study.

The nonpartisan Independent Budget Office suggests lengthening officers' shifts from 8 hours, 35 minutes to anywhere between 10 and 12 hours.

Police officers would still work the same number of hours per month.

The IBO says the change would make the department more efficient.

The report also raises the issue that officers who work longer shifts may not be able to perform as well.

Police Commissioner Ray Kelly has opposed longer shifts for officers, but Patrolman's Benevolent Association President Pat Lynch says he is in favor of it and suggests the financial savings from the change could be used to hire more officers.