Resolve, To Require the Installation of a Fence on the Penobscot Narrows Bridge

Emergency preamble. Whereas,  acts and resolves of the Legislature do not become effective until 90 days after adjournment unless enacted as emergencies; and

Whereas,  since the Penobscot Narrows Bridge between the Town of Prospect and the Town of Verona Island was opened in 2007, at least 6 people have ended their lives by leaping off the bridge; and

Whereas,  very recently a woman took her life by jumping off the Penobscot Narrows Bridge and it is imperative to erect a means to prevent future loss of life; and

Whereas,  studies have shown pedestrian barrier fences installed on bridges can be effective in preventing loss of life; and

Whereas,  in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore, be it

Sec. 1. Pedestrian barrier fences. Resolved: That the Department of Transportation shall construct and maintain pedestrian barrier fences on the Penobscot Narrows Bridge crossing the Penobscot River on Route 3 between the Town of Prospect and the Town of Verona Island for the purpose of suicide prevention.

Emergency clause. In view of the emergency cited in the preamble, this legislation takes effect when approved.

summary

This resolve directs the Department of Transportation to construct and maintain pedestrian barrier fences on the Penobscot Narrows Bridge for the purpose of suicide prevention.