Minnesota took a significant step toward the potential legalization of assisted suicide for terminally ill individuals as the state’s House Health Finance and Policy Committee approved a bill in a 10-5 vote on Thursday. The legislation, known as the “End of Life Options Act” or HF1930, now proceeds to the Public Safety Committee for further consideration.
HF1930 proposes allowing adults aged 18 or older diagnosed with a terminal illness and given six months or less to live to self-administer drugs to bring about their death.
The person seeking these drugs must possess the mental capacity to provide informed consent, excluding individuals with dementia, and should be capable of self-administering the medication. Additionally, at least two healthcare providers, including one physician, must assess the person and agree that they meet the specified criteria.
Already legalized in ten states and Washington, D.C., assisted suicide has gained traction across the country. Oregon became the first state to legalize it in 1994, and similar legislation is slowly gaining momentum in New York.
The Minnesota bill’s author, Democratic state Representative Mike Freiberg, has been advocating for its passage for nearly a decade. He expressed optimism about its chances, citing approximately 25 cosponsors and emphasizing the support from a “pro-choice majority” in both legislative chambers.
Freiberg framed the bill as addressing “bodily autonomy” during a press conference prior to the committee vote. Notably, the proposed legislation does not include a residency requirement, raising the possibility that Minnesota could become a destination for those seeking assisted suicide.
