Bill > SB926

This bill establishes the End-of-Life Option Act (named after Honorable Elijah E. Cummings and Honorable Shane E. Pendergrass), which allows terminally ill adults to request medication to end their life. The bill creates a comprehensive framework for aid in dying, defining key terms such as a "qualified individual" (an adult with a terminal illness who has decision-making capacity and can self-administer medication) and establishing a detailed process for making such a request. The process requires multiple steps, including two oral requests, a written request witnessed by two individuals, consultations with an attending physician and a consulting physician, and potentially a mental health assessment to ensure the individual is making an informed and voluntary decision. The bill protects healthcare providers by making participation voluntary and providing immunity from liability when acting in good faith. It also ensures that deaths under this act are considered natural deaths for legal and insurance purposes, and prohibits any coercion or undue influence in the request process. The legislation includes strict documentation requirements, mandates annual statistical reporting, and provides criminal penalties for anyone who attempts to fraudulently alter or influence a request for aid in dying. The bill will take effect on October 1, 2025, and is designed to give terminally ill patients more control over their end-of-life decisions while implementing safeguards to prevent potential abuse.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0926?ys=2025RS