The New Mexico State Legislature is now in session in Santa Fe. They are considering legislation that would allow medical aid-in-dying in New Mexico. It’s called the Elizabeth Whitefield End of Life Options Act (HB 90/SB 153).
The legislation allows a terminally ill, mentally capable adult the option to request, obtain and take medication, should they choose, to die peacefully in their sleep if their suffering becomes unbearable. It’s based on the Oregon Death with Dignity Act, which has been in practice for 20 years without a single instance of abuse or coercion. (Here’s a link to view a summary of all the details.)
If you want to let your local representatives in the House and Senate know your thoughts about this important initiative, you can do so in person or through phone or email.
Next Tuesday, January 29, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. is New Mexico End of Life Options Lobby Day. You can go to the Roundhouse in Santa Fe, participate in a news conference, visit your legislators in person, and let your views be known.
If you can’t go to Santa Fe to be there in person, you can still let your legislator know your views about this bill. Here’s a link to find and contact your New Mexico legislators.
Thank you for letting your New Mexico state representatives in the House and Senate know your views on this important legislation! I’ll be there on the 29th. If you want to meet up with The Doyenne of Death® in Santa Fe, send me a note!