TL/DR –
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has until December 31 to decide whether to sign or veto a bill that would legalize physician-assisted suicide in the state. The bill is supported by family members and advocates of terminally ill patients but has faced opposition from several medical groups, disability rights organizations, and the Catholic Church. If passed, the law would require terminally ill patients to record themselves requesting life-ending medication, undergo psychiatric evaluation, and would only be available to New York residents.
Physician-Assisted Suicide Bill Awaits New York Governor’s Decision
Before the year ends, Gov. Kathy Hochul must decide whether to sign or veto the physician-assisted suicide legislation in New York. This bill has found support among family members and advocates of terminally ill patients but witnessed opposition from selected medical groups, disability rights organizations and the Catholic Church.
Key Points of the Bill
- The bill is favored by family members and advocates of terminally ill patients but faces opposition from some medical groups, disability rights organizations and the Catholic Church
- Gov. Kathy Hochul is contemplating amendments to the bill, passed by the state legislature last spring. Possible edits include requiring terminally ill patients to videotape their request for life-ending prescriptions, a psychiatric evaluation mandate, and restricting access only to New York state residents.
- A group of opponents organized a candlelight vigil outside the governor’s Manhattan office for legislation awareness.
Gov. Hochul recognises the moral challenges the bill presents, stating, “That is why I’ve taken the time and I’m treating this very seriously.”
According to Gothamist, Hochul is considering possible amendments to the bill. She refrained from discussing bills still under negotiation.
Corinne Carey from the advocacy group Compassion and Choices and the state Bar Association support the bill, voicing opposition to any changes. She stressed that forced suffering at the end of life should not be endured by New Yorkers. If the law is enacted, terminally ill adults with less than six months to live could ask for the medication. Two doctors and unrelated witnesses who won’t benefit from the patient’s death must approve.
However, critics warn against the potential risks. Director of Patients Rights Action Fund Coalitions, Jessica Rodgers, noted that the proposal presents a slippery slope. She cited Oregon, referencing data indicating that individuals with disabilities or feelings of being a burden may pursue euthanasia.
If approved, New York joins 11 states and Washington, D.C. that have similar laws.
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