The New York State Senate on Monday passed the Medical Aid in Dying Act, positioning New York to become the 12th state to legalize physician-assisted death for terminally ill adults. The bill would allow mentally capable patients with six months or less to live to request a prescription for life-ending medication. To qualify, patients would need approvals from two doctors and submit a written request witnessed by two independent people. The legislation now heads to Governor Kathy Hochul’s desk, though she hasn’t yet indicated whether she’ll sign it.
Supporters say the measure gives people more control over how they face death, especially those enduring intense physical or emotional pain at the end of life. Backers — including Democrats like State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal and Assembly Health Chair Amy Paulin — point to Oregon’s decades-old law as a successful model and note that a majority of New Yorkers support the idea. They argue the bill’s built-in safeguards are enough to ensure it’s used responsibly.
The proposal has sparked deep concern among critics, including Republicans, religious leaders, disability advocates, and some Democrats. Opponents warn that the bill could open the door to broader use over time and say it doesn’t go far enough to protect vulnerable people. They’ve raised red flags about the potential for abuse, vague language in the bill, and a lack of mental health and palliative care resources. Some have called the measure a form of “state-authorized suicide” and urged Hochul to reject it. The governor’s decision will now determine whether the controversial law takes effect.
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