Debate Intensifies Over Physician-Assisted Death as More States Consider Legalization

As legislative efforts to legalize physician-assisted death advance, personal stories and ethical debates highlight the contentious issue.

At least 12 U.S. states are currently considering bills to legalize physician-assisted death, reflecting a growing national debate on the topic.
Personal accounts, like those of Deb Robertson and Gary Drake, illustrate the emotional and practical impacts of the current patchwork of laws.
Opponents argue that legalizing physician-assisted death could normalize suicide and be exploited under duress, while supporters advocate for personal autonomy and relief from suffering.
Recent legal changes, including the removal of residency requirements in Oregon and Vermont, have broadened access, sparking further debate and legal challenges.
Advocacy groups continue to push for more inclusive laws, emphasizing the urgency for terminally ill patients who seek control over their end-of-life decisions.