SACRAMENTO—A measure to require the Department of Transportation (Caltrans) in consultation with the Department of Public Health (CDPH) to identify best practices that may be used as countermeasures to deter suicide attempts on bridges and overpasses was sent to the governor today by the Assembly on an overwhelming supportive bipartisan vote. Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-San Bernardino) introduced the bill, AB 440.
AB 440 builds on Ramos’s broader commitment to improving mental health care in California. In 2020, he authored AB 2112, which established the Office of Suicide Prevention as the state’s lead agency for coordinating and streamlining suicide prevention efforts and resources.
Ramos stated, “California must do more to confront the great tragedy of suicide in our communities. Many times, individuals in distress need just a pause to reconsider their actions that can lead to irreversible harm to themselves and loved ones. Barriers and other interventions can stop that pain. Caltrans and CDPH must work together to identify and implement best practices to prevent future sorrow.”
The Assembly floor analysis noted that last year the Journal of Preventive Medicine reported that physical barriers are effective at reducing suicides by jumping from high risk areas and that physical deterrents did not result in individuals substituting a place or method for following through in a suicide attempt. The analysis also reported that suicide were reduced on the Golden Gate Bridge by 73% since installation of a barrier in 2024 and attempts were reduced by 34%.
Lyn Morris, CEO, Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services said, “Didi Hirsch is thrilled to learn that AB 440 has successfully passed both Senate and Assembly floor votes this week and is on its way to the Governor! We are profoundly grateful to Assemblymember Ramos for his steadfast leadership on efforts to reduce suicides in our state. AB 440 demonstrates that there is an unwavering commitment and belief that collectively, we can prevent suicide." Didi Hirsch is an AB 440 sponsor.
Supporters include the Bridge Rail Association, California Alliance of Child and Family Services, California Association of Social Rehabilitation Agencies, California Hospital Association, California Police Chiefs Association, County Behavioral Health Directors, California State Association of Psychiatrists, Children Now, National Alliance on Mental Illness/California, County of San Bernardino, City of Rancho Cucamonga, United Domestic Workers/AFSCME Local 3930, Wayfinder Family Services, Hillsides Pasadena, Helpline Youth Counseling, and Sycamores.
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Assemblymember James C. Ramos proudly represents the 45th Assembly district that includes the Cities of Fontana, Highland, Mentone, Redlands, Rialto and San Bernardino. He is the first and only California Native American serving in the state’s legislature. Ramos chairs the Assembly Budget Subcommittee #6 on Public Safety.