Delaware Legalizes Medical Aid in Dying for Terminally Ill Adults

Delaware Governor Matt Meyer signed House Bill 140 into law, legalizing medical aid in dying for terminally ill adult residents, allowing them to request and self-administer medication to end their lives. The bill requires confirmation of a terminal diagnosis and decision-making capacity by multiple medical professionals and mandates a written request witnessed by at least two people, with safeguards allowing patients to withdraw their request at any time. Supporters, including advocacy groups like Compassion & Choices, hailed the law as a compassionate choice that offers peace and dignity to those facing unimaginable suffering. However, the legislation faced fierce opposition from medical and disability rights groups, as well as the Delaware Catholic Advocacy Network, who warned it could endanger vulnerable populations, increase suicide rates, and lead to abuses such as elder abuse and insurance fraud. The bill passed narrowly in both legislative chambers and follows a similar measure vetoed last year by a former governor. The law will take effect by January 1, 2026, or earlier once necessary regulations are finalized.