Here’s the rewritten content in English:
This story discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.
Minnesota state lawmakers are reintroducing a bill to legalize medically assisted dying, a practice already legal in 10 states and Washington, D.C. The controversial legislation would allow terminally ill Minnesotans to self-administer a prescription medication that would end their lives over a period of time. Supporters argue it is an ethical way to alleviate suffering, while opponents warn it could create a dangerous slippery slope for vulnerable individuals.
"I’m proud to carry the Minnesota End-of-Life Options Act once again at the legislature. Over the past several years, I’ve heard countless stories from Minnesotans who want the ability to decide, with their doctors and loved ones, how they spend their final days," State Rep. Mike Freiberg said during a Thursday press conference, as reported by FOX 9 Minneapolis. "Their message is clear: They want compassion, autonomy, and peace at the end of life."
The proposed legislation is modeled after Oregon’s 1997 Death with Dignity Act. Under the bill, individuals must be adults with a terminal illness and a prognosis of six months or less to live. They must also be mentally capable of making decisions and able to self-administer the medication. Additionally, two medical clinicians must confirm the diagnosis and consent, and the individual must undergo a mental health evaluation.
The bill aims to provide relief for those suffering from terminal, life-altering illnesses like ALS. Tom Albin, an ALS patient, spoke at the press conference, sharing his perspective. "I am not suicidal; I love my life and the people in it," Albin said. "With my medical team, I’ve done things to extend my life with a feeding tube and a non-invasive ventilator. But ALS is cruel. It will eventually trap me in a body that can’t move. But I’ll be fully aware of it the whole time. And there’s no escape."
Gina Schneider, regional campaign and advocacy manager for Compassion & Choices Action Network, expressed gratitude for Rep. Freiberg’s efforts. "All Minnesotans deserve a full range of end-of-life care options," Schneider said. "We hope the legislature will honor the will of 73.2% of Minnesota voters who support this option for terminally ill adults in their final six months or less of life by getting HF 2998 to Governor Walz so he can make it law in 2025."
However, the Minnesota Alliance for Ethical Healthcare opposes the bill, citing concerns about its potential impact on vulnerable populations. "Physician-assisted suicide is often framed as a compassionate option, but the reality is that it deepens existing inequities in our healthcare system and places vulnerable individuals—especially those with disabilities, limited financial resources, and communities of color—at greater risk," spokesperson Nancy Utoft said in a statement. "We should be saying yes to better care, not legalizing an option that pressures people into ending their lives prematurely."
The debate over medically assisted dying has intensified in recent years, particularly in light of Canada’s 2017 legalization of medical assistance in dying (MAID), which has raised concerns about its application to individuals with mental health disorders.
Minnesota state senators are expected to introduce the bill next.
Audrey Conklin is a digital reporter for Fox News Digital and FOX Business. Email tips to [email protected] or on Twitter at @audpants.
Stay updated with the latest news by visiting ZTC News and Z News Today. Explore in-depth stories, breaking updates, and more!