This bill mandates the Commissioner of Transportation to conduct a comprehensive study on suicide prevention methods for the construction of new bridges in Minnesota. The study will evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of incorporating suicide prevention barriers, such as nets and physical barriers, into bridge design and construction. It will identify bridges with a history of suicide incidents, assess the costs and maintenance of various prevention methods, and develop criteria for when and where these barriers should be implemented. The study is to be completed by January 15, 2026, and will involve collaboration with health and public safety officials, as well as input from local communities and suicide prevention organizations.

Beginning January 15, 2026, the Commissioner will be required to implement the recommended suicide prevention methods for major bridge projects and ensure their inclusion in the statewide transportation improvement program. Additionally, starting January 15, 2027, the Commissioner must report biennially to legislative committees on the implementation of these methods, detailing projects where they were employed and gathering feedback from stakeholders. The bill also appropriates $750,000 from the general fund for the study and planning processes related to suicide prevention in bridge construction, with funds available until June 30, 2028.