Overview

• The New York State Assembly passed the Medical Aid in Dying Act by a vote of 81-67, marking the first time the legislation has advanced in either chamber after a decade of advocacy.
• The bill permits mentally competent adults with a terminal prognosis of six months or less to obtain life-ending medication, contingent on certification by two physicians and strict witness requirements.
• Religious leaders and disability rights advocates oppose the measure, citing moral concerns, potential coercion, and fears of future eligibility expansion.
• Supporters, including terminally ill patients and their families, argue the bill offers a compassionate end-of-life choice and emphasizes personal autonomy.
• The bill now awaits review by Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, who has not committed to a floor vote, while Governor Kathy Hochul has yet to indicate her position on the legislation.