Rep. Synenberg Introduces Medical Aid in Dying Legislation

COLUMBUS - State Rep. Eric Synenberg (D-Beachwood) today introduced legislation that would permit medical aid in dying (MAID) in Ohio.

"I have read David Hollister's story and others like his, asking Ohio to provide this compassionate end-of-life option," said Rep. Synenberg. "In one of life's most intimate moments, individuals should have the freedom to make decisions that reflect their values, their dignity, and their wishes."

The Ohio Medical Aid in Dying Act does the following:

• Allows qualified patients who are terminally ill and determined to be within six months of death the ability to request a self-administered prescription for an aid-in-dying medication;
• Requires patients to live in Ohio to participate in MAID;
• Outlines extensive qualifications for patients to qualify for MAID;
• Requires both two verbal requests and a written request for MAID;
• Allows individuals to withdraw their request at any time and in any manner;
• Includes legal protections for participating medical personnel;
• Outlines the form the Department of Health must use for individuals requesting MAID;
• Specifies that no individual, hospital, or hospice is mandated to participate in MAID; and
• Contains other administrative guidelines and regulations.
  

"Similar laws have been crafted by medical professionals and lawmakers for the last 30 years and have been implemented by 13 states and Washington, D.C.," continued Rep. Synenberg. "There are strict safeguards in place to make sure any request is voluntary for both patients and providers."

"We believe people who are dying deserve options other than simply submitting to suffering from a terminal disease," said Lisa Vigil-Schattinger, a nurse and Executive Director of Ohio End of Life Options. "We also advocate for access to high-quality hospice and palliative care, but we understand that not all suffering can be relieved and believe that only the dying individual can determine when the suffering is too great."

"I am grateful to Ohio End of Life Options for continuing to move this conversation forward and honored to be asked to carry this very important piece of legislation," concluded Rep. Synenberg.

The bill now awaits a number and committee assignment.

EDITOR'S NOTE: A photo is attached to this release from the press conference. Courtesy: Ohio House Democratic Caucus.