New legislation that would authorize people with terminal illnesses to request life-ending drugs from a physician has been introduced in New York state.
The bill, announced Tuesday, incorporates aspects of two earlier proposals. Supporters say the new version is a significant step toward passing right-to-die legislation in the state.
The proposal would require two physicians to certify the patient's illness is terminal. Physicians could refuse to agree to the request for any reason.
Supporters say the bill gives suffering patients the freedom to end their lives with dignity but has proper safeguards.
The proposal faces big challenges with some lawmakers who say they worry such a law would be abused.
Later this year, California will become the fifth state to allow end-of-life assistance.
