Overview
- New York State Senate approved the Medical Aid in Dying Act on June 9, sending the bill to Gov. Kathy Hochul’s desk for her signature or veto.
- The measure allows terminally ill residents to obtain life-ending prescriptions without a waiting period and under minimal oversight, making it the most permissive state law of its kind.
- The American Medical Association has reaffirmed its opposition, calling “medical aid in dying” fundamentally incompatible with the physician’s role.
- Critics, including Rep. Elise Stefanik, argue Hochul should veto the bill and instead bolster palliative care in a state that ranks last nationwide for end-of-life support.
- Hochul’s decision carries political weight as she balances growing public support for assisted dying, ethical concerns and her upcoming reelection bid.