Matt Meyer, the Democratic governor of Delaware, signed a bill on Tuesday that legalizes physician-assisted suicide for terminally ill patients expected to live for less than six months.
Meyer stated that the legislation, known as the End Options Act, focuses on “compassion, dignity, and respect for personal choices.” Set to take effect next year, the bill permits eligible patients to request prescriptions that allow them to end their lives on their own terms.
“We recognize that compassion is essential, even in the final moments of life,” Meyer remarked during the signing ceremony. “All Delawareans should have the right to approach their last chapter with peace, dignity, and control.”
He further emphasized, “This signature is about alleviating suffering, allowing families to take charge of their circumstances without unnecessary pain, all while being surrounded by their loved ones.”
According to the bill, patients seeking assisted suicide must also explore alternative end-of-life care options, which include palliative care and pain management. Additionally, a second medical opinion regarding the prognosis is required after two waiting periods before any lethal medications can be administered. The bill was championed by state lawmaker Eric Morrison.
With this new law, Delaware becomes the 11th state to permit physician-assisted suicide, joining others including Vermont, Oregon, and California.
“Today, Delaware is aligning itself with more states that recognize that decisions about end-of-life care should belong to patients rather than politicians,” Meyer said. “This law symbolizes compassion and respect, providing those facing unimaginable situations with the choice to seek peace and comfort surrounded by their loved ones. After years of dialogue, I’m proud to sign HB 140.”
Although the Delaware legislature turned down the bill last year, Meyer backed it during the recent session, and lawmakers passed it last month.
Related: Nevada Legislature will review bills to legalize doctor-supported suicide
National Right to Life’s Carol Tobias criticized Meyer for endorsing the legislation, stating it puts lives at risk. “The Assisted Suicide Act lacks compassion and helps vulnerable individuals,” she said. “Conversations about end-of-life care should prioritize palliative support rather than encourage premature death.”
Tobias expressed concerns about the supposed safeguards, arguing they aren’t effective and that underlying pressures could still lead to patients being euthanized against their wishes.
“The worry surrounding assisted suicide is that it could pressure our most vulnerable citizens, such as the elderly and those with disabilities, to consider such options, thereby normalizing a ‘culture of death’,” she added.
