U.S. States Strengthen Their Laws Against Assisted Suicide

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey

By Margaret Dore, Esq., MBA

In the last ten years, at least eight states have strengthened their laws against assisted suicide/euthanasia. They are:

1.  Alabama:  In 2017, Alabama enacted the Assisted Suicide Ban Act;
2.  Arizona:  In 2014, Arizona strengthened its law against assisted suicide.
3.  Georgia:  In 2012, Georgia strengthened its law against assisted suicide.
4.  Idaho:  On April 5, 2011, Idaho strengthened its law against assisted suicide.
5.  Louisiana:  In 2012, Louisiana strengthened its assisted suicide/euthanasia ban
6.  Ohio:  In 2017, Ohio strengthened its law against assisted suicide. See  http://codes.ohio.gov/orc/3795
7.  South Dakota:  In 2017, the South Dakota Legislature passed Concurrent Resolution 11, opposing physician-assisted suicide. See Bill History.
8.  Utah:  In 2018, Utah amended its manslaughter statute to include assisted suicide. For more information, see https://le.utah.gov/~2018/bills/static/HB0086.html and click “status.”

Alabama: Assisted Suicide Ban Act to Go Into Effect

Governor Ivey

By Margaret K. Dore

On May 4, 2017, Governor Kay Ivey approved "Alabama's Assisted Suicide Ban Act." The Act's legislative findings include that in almost every state, it is a crime to assist a suicide.

Per the Act, any person who deliberately assists another person to commit suicide is guilty of a Class C felony. Violators are also subject to liability for damages, actions for wrongful death and suspension or revocation of professional healthcare licenses.

The Act provides that it "shall become effective on the first day of the third month following its passage and approval by the Governor."

To view a copy of the Act as enrolled, click here.