April 23, 2018: The NYS Assembly Health Committee held a four-hour public hearing in Albany today on the proposed Medical Aid in Dying Act. The Act, similar to laws in seven other jurisdictions, would allow mentally competent, terminally ill patients to receive a prescription from their doctor that would allow them to end their life when and if they choose to do so.
Public seating at the Assembly Health Committee hearing in Albany
Under the chairmanship of Assembly member Richard N. Gottfried, the committee heard testimony from patients and their families, doctors, and experts in law, ethics, and religion. Supporters of the Act focused on providing near-to-death patients with a legal way to end their lives when faced with suffering. Opponents focused on how the Act could devalue the lives of persons with disabilities and on some ethical concerns.
Supporters and opponents of the Act filled the hearing room, making their positions clear through their occasional applause and identifying garb.
A second, longer public hearing will be held in New York City on May 3.
A fuller story is available in the Times Union. Videos of both hearings are available at nyassembly.gov/av/hearings/