Overview

This bill aims to legalize assisted dying for competent adults in England and Wales who are terminally ill. It sets out strict criteria, including a clear and settled intention to die, confirmation from two independent doctors, and a waiting period, to ensure safeguards are in place.

Description

The Assisted Dying Bill allows terminally ill adults (18+, resident in England and Wales for at least a year) to request assistance in ending their life. The process involves:

• Diagnosis: A registered medical practitioner must diagnose a terminal illness with an expected lifespan of six months or less (or one month if the doctors agree).
• Declaration: The individual must make a written declaration of their intention to die, witnessed by someone not involved in their care. This declaration must be countersigned by two independent doctors who verify the person's capacity, understanding, and free will.
• Prescription: The attending doctor can prescribe medication enabling self-administration, only after a waiting period of 14 days (or 6 days if death is expected within a month).
• Administration: A health professional (doctor or authorized nurse) can assist with the preparation and self-administration, remaining present until the individual self-administers or decides against it.
• Conscientious Objection: Healthcare professionals are not required to participate if they have a conscientious objection.
• Legal Protections: Individuals providing assistance under the bill will not be prosecuted. The Suicide Act 1961 will be amended accordingly.
• Monitoring: The Chief Medical Officer will monitor the Act's operation and submit annual reports to Parliament.
• Offences: Creating or using a false declaration, concealing or destroying a valid declaration, or providing false information are criminal offences with potential penalties ranging from fines to life imprisonment (depending on the severity).

Government Spending

The bill's financial impact on government spending is not explicitly stated in the provided text. However, costs are anticipated relating to monitoring, reporting, and potential regulatory changes.

Groups Affected

• Terminally ill adults: Potentially benefit from the option of assisted dying, subject to strict criteria.
• Healthcare professionals: Will have new responsibilities and legal protections regarding assisted dying. They also have the right to conscientious objection.
• Families of terminally ill individuals: May face emotional challenges and ethical considerations.
• Religious groups and ethical organizations: May have differing opinions on the bill's moral and ethical implications.

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