Bill > HB2488

This bill directs the West Virginia Department of Transportation (WV DOT) to conduct a comprehensive safety study focusing on suicide deaths at the New River Gorge Bridge. Specifically, the Secretary of Transportation must investigate the feasibility, potential effectiveness, and costs of installing suicide prevention and safety measures on the bridge. As part of the study, the Secretary is required to consult with the Bridge Day Commission to understand how potential safety measures might impact the annual Bridge Day event and to explore potential federal funding sources. The study must also consider the potential costs of safety systems with and without disrupting Bridge Day activities. The Secretary can use State Road Fund money, seek grants, collaborate with other governmental agencies, educational institutions, or private contractors to complete the study. By December 31, 2025, a detailed report must be submitted to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance. Once the report is received, the study provision will automatically be repealed. The primary goal of this legislation is to explore ways to prevent suicide deaths on the New River Gorge Bridge by examining potential safety interventions.

Transportation and Infrastructure

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=2488&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill