February 17, 2023

Assisted-suicide bill introduced

As expected, a new assisted suicide bill (HF1930/SF1813) was introduced February 16th in the Minnesota Legislature. Upon initial review, it seems similar to the last iteration of the bill in 2021. We are in the process of taking an in-depth look at the legislation and will report back anything that is new.

In the meantime, we are continuing to monitor the possibility of whether or not there will be a hearing for the new assisted suicide bill. We are in the process of working with our coalition partners on testifiers to highlight how protecting the choices of a few by legalizing assisted suicide will endanger healthcare for all of us. If you have insights or suggestions for testimony, please let us know.
 
Finally, a reminder that the Star Tribune published a Counterpoint editorial on assisted suicide from Dr. Edward T. Creagan, emeritus professor of medical oncology and internal medicine at Mayo Clinic and past president of the Mayo Clinic Faculty. Dr. Creagan compassionately shares his story about how legalizing PAS would limit patient autonomy and that greater effort should be placed on equality of care in order to provide the same access to care and health services to all people regardless of their health condition. Please share with your network.