Last year, California completed installation of a $220 million suicide barrier net on both sides of the Golden Gate Bridge to discourage people from jumping. The net was also intended to break the falls of those who did jump. The net runs the entire 1.7-mile span of the bridge and has reduced fatal jumps from the bridge by 73%, as well as deterring many who may have changed their minds about diving to their deaths.

As a consequence of roughly 2,000 suicides by jump from the Golden Gate Bridge since its construction in 1937, the net was installed because even though individual autonomy is highly valued in California, there was a compelling state interest in preventing suicide.

Ironically, this state interest in preventing suicide is at cross purposes with the California legislative propos

See Full Page