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H 3604

An Act relative to 988 Samaritan suicide prevention signs on bridges of the commonwealth

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jim Arciero and 2 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill mandating 988 suicide prevention hotline signs on state bridges to provide immediate crisis resources at high-risk suicide locations.

Hearing scheduled for 10/07/2025 from 11:00 AM-01:00 PM in A-1
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Bill Summary · H 3604

Legislative bill overview

H 3604 requires the installation of 988 Samaritan suicide prevention signs on bridges throughout Massachusetts. The bill mandates that these signs display the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline number to provide immediate resources to individuals in crisis. This represents a public health intervention aimed at reducing suicide deaths at high-risk locations.

Why is this important

Bridge suicides account for a significant portion of suicide deaths, making bridges a critical intervention point. Research suggests that visible crisis hotline signage can encourage individuals to reach out for help rather than attempt self-harm. This is a relatively low-cost, evidence-informed measure that multiple states and countries have already implemented with measurable outcomes.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and maintenance responsibility: The bill does not clearly specify which state agency bears costs for manufacturing, installation, and ongoing maintenance of signs on potentially hundreds of bridges, or how municipalities are funded if responsible for local bridges
  • Effectiveness metrics and oversight: The bill lacks provisions for tracking whether the signs actually prevent suicides or simply increase hotline calls, making it difficult to evaluate success or justify continued spending
  • Visual impact and placement logistics: Questions remain about optimal sign placement and visibility on different bridge types, whether multiple signs per bridge are needed, and potential community concerns about aesthetics or "normalizing" suicide discussion in visible ways

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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