Illinois Legislature Passes Physician-Assisted Suicide Bill, Awaits Governor's Decision

Illinois has moved closer to legalizing physician-assisted suicide after the state Senate passed the "End-of-Life Options for Terminally Ill Patients Act," which allows terminally ill adults with six months or less to live to request and self-administer life-ending medication. The bill, which already passed the House, now awaits Governor J.B. Pritzker's decision within 60 days to sign, veto, or allow it to become law automatically. Supporters emphasize the option as compassionate relief for terminally ill patients, while opponents, including the Catholic Conference of Illinois and groups like Patients Rights Action Fund, urge the governor to veto the legislation and instead focus on expanding mental health, hospice, and palliative care services. Critics also express concern over the moral implications and human dignity, encouraging prayers and further advocacy. Illinois would become the 12th state to enact such legislation if the bill is signed. This controversy unfolds alongside other legislative actions in Illinois, such as funding for mass transit, but the assisted suicide bill remains a focal point of public and political debate.