A bill that would expand end-of-life options for people with a terminal illness has passed both Houses of the State Legislature and will be acted upon by Governor Hochul this year. StateWide supports this legislation, (A136/S238), and has written to the Governor urging her to sign the bill into law. Read the bill here.
Under the bill, a competent and communicative patient with six months or less to live due to the progression of a terminal illness can opt to request from a physician a prescription for a drug that they would take themselves if they decide to do so in order to end their life in the place of their choice, surrounded by the people they wish to be with as they take their last breath. A second physician would have to agree in order for the drug to be dispensed. In passing the bill, the Legislature recognized the bill is not about ending life but shortening death. The Legislature has made sure guardrails are in place to protect the rights of patients who could seek this option.
Read a sample letter to the Governor here. You can urge Governor Hochul to sign A136 by sending her a message, by emailing her directly HERE or mailing a handwritten or personalized letter to her addressed to:
The Honorable Kathy Hochul
Governor of New York State
NYS State Capitol Building
Albany, NY 12224