Illinois Lawmakers Pass 'Right to Die' Bill Waiting Governor Pritzker's Decision

Illinois is on the verge of becoming the 11th state to legalize medical aid in dying with the passage of the End-of-Life Options for Terminally Ill Patients Act, also known as Deb's Law, which allows terminally ill, mentally competent adults to receive a prescription for life-ending medication. The bill, named after Debra Robertson, a terminal cancer patient and advocate, requires patients to have a prognosis of six months or less and mandates approval from two physicians and a mental health screening. Governor JB Pritzker has yet to decide whether to sign the bill, expressing deep sympathy for those suffering but stating he is still examining the legislation. The bill has sparked division among physicians and opposition from religious groups and disability advocates concerned about ethical and abuse issues. Proponents argue the law provides safeguards and autonomy for patients facing unbearable suffering, similar to existing laws in at least 10 other states and the District of Columbia. If signed, the law would take effect nine months later, offering terminally ill patients the option to end their lives on their own terms.