Politics
Pritzker Signs ‘Medical Aid in Dying’ Bill
Gov. JB Pritzker is pictured in a file photo at a previous bill signing. (Capitol News Illinois)
Terminally ill Illinois residents will be allowed to take life-ending medication prescribed by a doctor under a bill signed Friday by Gov. JB Pritzker.
The bill, which narrowly passed the Illinois Senate on its way to Pritzker’s desk, will take effect in September, after state health officials “implement stringent processes and protections” to ensure the measure is not abused.
Illinois is now the 12th state to allow doctor-assisted suicide.
Pritzker, who announced he had signed the bill in a statement rather than a public event, said he decided to sign the bill after struggling with the issue.
“I have been deeply impacted by the stories of Illinoisans or their loved ones that have suffered from a devastating terminal illness, and I have been moved by their dedication to standing up for freedom and choice at the end of life in the midst of personal heartbreak,” Pritzker said.
Those suffering from a terminal illness who want to end their life must have two doctors certify that they will die within six months. Patients must make a request for the medication to end their life must be requested both orally and in writing, and patients must be able to take it themselves, according to the rules.
Known as “Deb’s Law,” the bill honors Deb Robertson, of Lombard, who has a rare illness and lobbied for the law.
“Today, I know the end for me could be near,” Robertson said in a statement released by the governor’s office. But I’m pleased to have been able to play some role in ensuring that terminally ill Illinoisans have access to medical aid in dying.”
Contact Heather Cherone: @HeatherCherone | (773) 569-1863 | [email protected]
