Maryland lawmakers will withdraw aid-in-dying legislation

[TexasTowelie]

For the third year in a row, Democratic lawmakers have given up on passing aid-in-dying legislation that would let some terminally ill patients legally end their lives.

The measure's two sponsors said they will withdraw their "death with dignity" bill, citing insufficient political support in the House of Delegates.

Advocates say it's a humane choice for people of sound mind who have a devastating prognosis. Opponents, including religious groups and the disability community, say it is immoral and lacks sufficient protections for vulnerable people.

Until 2009, just one state — Oregon — allowed the practice. Now, five states have approved assisted dying statutes and legislation has been proposed in several others.

Read more: http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/maryland/politics/bs-md-aid-in-dying-withdrawn-20170303-story.html

[bluedye33139]

1. I just watched how to die in Oregon

A documentary about death with dignity in Washington state and Oregon State. This is such a difficult topic. In my job I have had to counsel families about end-of-life decisions, and I am very professional while dealing with the patients and their families but when I get to my car I usually close the door and cry for a minute.

One thing I always remind myself is that even in states where death With Dignity is not the law, hospitals use morphine to in the life of terminal patients. The standard procedure is to increase the morphine drip until it becomes lethal. At least three of my family members have received this in a state where physician-assisted suicide is illegal.