Sen. Curry bill to construct suicide prevention barriers on Penobscot Narrows Bridge becomes law

AUGUSTA — A bill from Sen. Chip Curry, D-Belfast, was signed into law by Gov. Janet Mills. LD 1120, “Resolve, to Install a Suicide Barrier on the Penobscot Narrows Bridge,” directs the Department of Transportation to construct and maintain pedestrian barrier fences on the bridge to prevent suicides.

“I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Governor Mills for her swift action in signing LD 1120 into law.” Sen. Curry said. “A barrier fence on the Penobscot Narrows Bridge will save lives. It also shows those going through tough times that we care about their safety and well-being.”

LD 1120 seeks to prevent further loss of life at the Penobscot Narrows Bridge by requiring the Department of Transportation to construct and maintain pedestrian barrier fences on the bridge for the purposes of suicide prevention. The bill directs MDOT to report its progress every six months until the installation of the barrier is complete.

Studies have consistently shown that barriers are more effective than alternative methods, such as signage or telephone hotlines, in reducing suicide rates. One notable study revealed that the implementation of barriers led to a significant 86% reduction in suicides at publicly accessible heights.

Prior to the installation of a barrier, the Memorial Bridge in Augusta was the site of numerous tragic deaths by suicide. Since the barrier was put in place, no suicides have been reported at that location. A 2005 study examining the specific impact of the barrier in Augusta found that it was not only effective in preventing suicides but also did not lead to an increase in suicide attempts at other sites across the state during the research period.

If you are in an emergency situation (you are feeling suicidal, or someone you know is talking about suicide or is threatening themselves or someone else), or you are not sure, call the Maine Crisis Hotline at 1-888-568-1112. There is no charge to call. For more resources, please visit https://www.namimaine.org/crisisresources.

LD 1120 is an emergency measure and took effect immediately upon being signed by the Governor.