Assisted Suicide Gathers Steam in the United States

Legislation, ballot questions and court rulings dealing with the legalization of assisted suicide are gathering steam across the country. In some ways, this is a routine occurrence as a new legislative session begins in the various states. But, fueled by the successful ballot initiative in Washington state and the dangerous court decision in Montana, there is a flurry of activity.

Washington

The Washington law allowing assisted suicide takes effect on March 4, 2009. The rules adopted by the state are nearly identical to ones in effect in Oregon for the past ten years.

Montana

A state court judge in Montana ruled that assisted suicide is legal under her interpretation of the Montana State Constitution. The ruling took effect immediately after her December 5, 2008 ruling but is being appealed to the Montana State Supreme Court. A bill has been introduced to establish rules and regulations for carrying out assisted suicide.

New Hampshire

Legislation to legalize assisted suicide had a public hearing in February.

New Mexico and Massachusetts

Bills have been introduced to legalize assisted suicide.

Hawaii

A bill to legalize assisted suicide was introduced but apparently will receive no action.

Arizona and Maryland

Bills have been introduced in these states patterned after the successful California law to make it easier to legalize assisted suicide in the future and to give credibility to pro-euthanasia groups as ones to consult for end-of-life decision making.

Barbara Lyons