New York State is poised to legalize end-of-life assistance for terminally ill adults after lawmakers passed the Medical Aid in Dying Act and Governor Kathy Hochul announced she intends to sign the legislation following final technical steps.
The bill would allow mentally competent adults with a terminal diagnosis of six months or less to request medication from a physician to peacefully end their lives. Supporters say the measure provides compassion, dignity, and personal autonomy at the end of life, while incorporating strict safeguards to prevent abuse.
“Know that I did not come to this lightly,” Hochul said in a statement explaining her support. “This was one of the toughest decisions I’ve made as governor.” Hochul said the legislation is designed to “shorten death, not life,” and emphasized that additional guardrails were added to protect vulnerable individuals.
Under the law, patients would be required to a make a written request and undergo evaluations to confirm mental competency. A waiting period would apply, and health care providers and institutions, including religiously affiliated facilities, would be permitted to opt out of participation.
Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal, the bill’s Senate sponsor, called the legislation “a monumental victory” for New Yorkers confronting terminal illness, saying it gives patients greater control during their final months. Assembly sponsor Amy Paulin said the measure offers terminally ill individuals “the autonomy and dignity they deserve at the most vulnerable moment in their lives.”
The proposal has been debated in Albany for more than a decade, with supporters citing similar laws in other states that allow medical aid in dying under tightly regulated conditions. Opponents have raised ethical concerns, including objections from religious organizations and disability advocates who worry about potential pressure on patients.
Once signed, the law would take effect six months later, giving state health officials time to establish regulations and guidance for implementation. Hochul said the delay would ensure the law is carried out carefully and responsibly.