ALBANY – State lawmakers are “likely” to pass a bill to legalize physician-assisted suicide next week –despite controversy over the legislation, the Senate Democratic leader said Thursday.
The measure — which would allow people with six months or less to live to be prescribed a cocktail of drugs to end their lives — would be sent to Gov. Kathy Hochul’s desk after approval by the state legislature in a vote that could come as soon as Monday.
“I do believe there are the votes and it is likely it will come to the floor,” Senate Democratic Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins told reporters.
“Ultimately, the majority of the conference felt comfortable with providing options for people during difficult end of life times,” the Westchester County legislator said.
A source familiar said the vote is likely to be scheduled for Monday and Stewart-Cousins’ acknowledgement it is set for a vote indicates wide support in the Democratic caucus, which controls both houses of the legislature.
Critics of the legislation – which include the Catholic church and disability rights groups, amongst others – argue the bill doesn’t have adequate safeguards against abuse.
“We appreciate the Senator’s desire to have a conversation about end of life care, but handing sick people a suicide cocktail is not compassion nor is it healthcare,” Bob Bellafiore, spokesperson for the New York State Catholic Conference told The Post.
“We know many Democratic senators have very deep reservations about this bill and they should be allowed to vote their conscience instead of toeing a party line,” he added.
State Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton, one of the Senators driving the effort to pass the bill, said the legislation is about “honoring choice.”
“Passing the Medical Aid in Dying Act affirms New Yorkers’ right to make deeply personal end-of-life decisions. This legislation offers terminally ill individuals the autonomy to choose a peaceful and dignified passing, surrounded by loved ones,” Scarcella-Spanton said.
“It’s about honoring choice, alleviating suffering, and treating people with the compassion they deserve. I’m proud to see that we have the support to get this landmark piece of legislation done,” Scarcella-Spanton added.
