More states to consider aid-in-dying laws
Six states now allow physicians to prescribe lethal doses of medication to mentally capable patients with terminal illnesses after Colorado approved a “right to die” standard by voter referendum. Kaiser Health News reports more states are likely to follow.
What could encourage faster adoption of aid-in-dying laws is the level of support shown in Colorado. Despite $2.6 million raised by groups opposing the measure, its proponents were able to raise more money and garner far more votes, with support for the amendment winning by a more than two-to-one margin.
“When you pass a bill by such a significant majority,” said Toni Broaddus, acting national director of political affairs and advocacy at Compassion & Choices, “it just demonstrates the non-partisan nature of this issue and the widespread support.”
For more on how states like New Jersey and New York may be the next targets for advocates and opponents for aid-in-dying laws, click on the link below:
John joined TriMed in 2016, focusing on healthcare policy and regulation. After graduating from Columbia College Chicago, he worked at FM News Chicago and Rivet News Radio, and worked on the state government and politics beat for the Illinois Radio Network. Outside of work, you may find him adding to his never-ending graphic novel collection.