Bill > A09515

This bill amends existing law regarding medical aid in dying, clarifying definitions and procedures for terminally ill patients seeking to end their lives with medical assistance. Key changes include defining "patient" as a New York State resident, expanding the definition of "mental health professional" to include licensed psychologists, and specifying that a "terminal illness or condition" is one that will produce death within six months regardless of treatment. The bill also allows for alternative communication methods for oral requests if a patient is physically incapable, requires audio or video recording of such requests, and clarifies that witnesses to a written request cannot financially benefit from the patient's death. It permits attending physicians to conduct examinations via telehealth in cases of extraordinary hardship to the patient, requires a mental health professional's evaluation before a prescription is issued, and establishes a mandatory five-day waiting period between writing and filling a prescription for medication, with exceptions for patients with a very short life expectancy. Additionally, the bill allows private healthcare facilities to prohibit medical aid in dying based on sincerely held religious or moral beliefs, but requires them to transfer patients to facilities that permit it, and prohibits insurers from proactively informing patients about medical aid in dying unless requested. Finally, it extends the effectiveness of certain provisions related to medical aid in dying.

Health and Social Services, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A9515