Slovenia approves law to legalize assisted dying for terminally-ill adults
The country's lawmakers passed the bill following a closely watched parliamentary vote with 50 votes in favor, 34 against and three abstaining. The vote also focused on a national referendum demanding expanded end-of-life rights.
The legislation comes after a consultative referendum last year in which 55% of voters supported the right to end-of-life autonomy. While the move is being praised as historic, the law's implementation will not be immediate as the procedures and oversight mechanisms are still being developed.
The law applies to terminally ill adults who are experiencing unbearable suffering with no prospect of improvement. In order for candidates to qualify, they must be mentally competent and have already exhausted their available treatment options. Individuals suffering solely from mental illness will be excluded from eligibility. The patient has to provide informed, voluntary, and repeated consent. It is believed that the process may require evaluation by multiple medical professionals.
Delaware's Assisted Suicide Bill Signed Into Law, Making It The 11Th State With Such A Statute
Although it is being hailed as a landmark move, it will not be immediately implemented as the detailed procedures and oversight mechanisms are still being finalized.
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"This is a victory for compassion and dignity," said one lawmaker in support of the bill. A civil rights group opposed to the law referendum to overturn the measure.
A civil rights group opposing the new law pledged on Friday to seek public backing for a potential attempt to force a referendum on the measure.
New York Assembly Passes Bill To Legalize Assisted Suicide For The Terminally Ill
Several other countries, including Canada, Germany, Belgium, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Australia and Colombia, have legalized the so-called death with dignity.
Last month, Britain's parliament voted to legalize assisted dying, although the bill must still clear the upper chamber of parliament.
In the U.S., 11 states allow medical aid in dying: Delaware, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Maine, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Vermont and Washington. Lawmakers in some other states are considering similar legislation.
Washington, D.C., also permits physician-assisted suicide.
Reuters contributed to this report.Original article source: Slovenia approves law to legalize assisted dying for terminally-ill adults
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