BILL NUMBER: S2708

SPONSOR: HARCKHAM
 
TITLE OF BILL:

An act to amend the transportation law, in relation to requiring the
installation of climb deterrent fencing on certain bridges

 
PURPOSE:

Requires the installation of climb deterrent fencing on certain bridges

 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:

Section 1 amends section 14 of the transportation law by adding new
subdivision 16-a which requires the commissioner to ensure that climb
deterrent fencing is installed on all bridges under the jurisdiction of
the New York State Bridge Authority.

Section 2 states the effective date.

 
              

JUSTIFICATION:

The issue of suicide is a public health problem, and the 2nd leading
cause of death in the United States from ages 10-34. Suicide is
completely preventable- increased investment in suicide prevention,
education, and research will prevent the untimely deaths of thousands of
Americans each year. According to the American Foundation for Suicide
Prevention, bridges and other publicly accessible areas of significant
height pose a risk for suicide attempts.  This legislation seeks to
require the NYS Bridge Authority to install climb deterrent fencing on
all bridges under their jurisdiction.  Barrier installation is a proven
method of increasing this crucial time for individuals at risk for
suicide by jumping. These barriers act as a delay or deterrent to an
individual at risk, providing more time to get through the intense,
often brief, moment of suicide crisis.

 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:

2021-2022: S7310/A8273 - Died in Transportation

 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:

None to the State.

 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect one year after it shall have become a law.