LANSING (WWJ) -- Following several recent security threats to the Mackinac Bridge, state lawmakers are now looking for ways to keep the structure safe.
The House Transportation Committee held a hearing on Tuesday to discuss the matter with testimony from the Michigan State Police.
State Representative Jack O’Malley is the chair of the committee, and tells WWJ that it was a surprise to learn the bridge is not covered by the Michigan's critical infrastructure law.
“We had a gentleman climb the tower, and he was charged under the critical infrastructure law, which is a felony,” O’Malley said. “The case was dismissed because the Mackinac Bridge is not part of the critical infrastructure law.”
The man, who caused alarm when he was spotted carrying a backpack and climbing underneath the bridge on June 17, was charged with a trespassing misdemeanor.
About a month later, a bomb threat at the south end of the bridge caused a closure that lasted several hours while Mackinaw City Police investigated.
After several sweeps, law enforcement determined the threat was unfounded, and officials reopened the bridge.
Mackinac Bridge authority officials say one change that may help is to increase legal penalties for trespassing on the bridge, which famously connects Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas.
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