To the editor:

On Thursday, April 20 at 4 p.m., the State Senate will hear and consider an important piece of legislation. Senate Bill 586 “Mandates the RITBA to design a safety barrier or netting system on the Mount Hope Bridge, the Claiborne Pell Bridge, and the Jamestown Verrazzano Bridge by January 1, 2024, with construction commencing no later than June 30, 2024.”

We have lost countless Rhode Islanders to these bridges, including members of the Barrington community. Suicide is a significant issue impacting our nation, but restricting access to means reduces suicide. In 2021, the United States saw 1.7 million adults attempt suicide, with over 48,000 Americans dying from suicide. The majority of people who survive suicide attempts do not go on to end their lives, which is why taking steps to prevent death from suicide is so critical. Things like gun safety laws, barriers or nets on high bridges, receptacles for unused prescription medications, suicide prevention training and greater access to mental health services are all important steps toward suicide prevention.

We have an opportunity this week to make a difference. Those able can go to the Statehouse on Thursday at 4 p.m. (Room 212) and testify in person. 

For others, taking a few minutes to compose an email of support for this bill can help to get this legislation finally passed. Written testimonials can be sent by 3 p.m. on April 20 to:

SLegislation@rilegislature.gov

Subject: Support for Senate Bill 586 Please forward to all committee members

Please address the testimony to Chair Lombardo and members of the Housing and Municipal Government Committee,

Include your name.

Be sure to start your message with, I am in favor of Senate Bill 586.

Give a brief statement as to why you support this bill.

Provide your town name.

We have lost too many members of our town and our state to suicide. The impact of suicide on families and communities is devastating. Please help pass legislation aimed to reduce deaths from our local bridges. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide or experiencing a mental health crisis, please dial 988 for immediate assistance. 

Maura McCrann

Barrington