Measure Would Expand Death Certificate Reporting Requirements

Legislation has recently been introduced to increase transparency and accuracy in how deaths under Illinois' medical aid in dying law are documented.

Senate Bill 3937, introduced by State Senator Chris Balkema, would amend Illinois' End-of-Life Options for Terminally Ill Patients Act to require that death certificates reflect both a patient's underlying terminal illness and the fact that medical aid in dying occurred.

Under current law, when the Act takes effect on September 12, 2026, the official death certificate for a patient who self-administers life-ending medication will list only the person's terminal illness. SB 3937 would change that by requiring the death certificate to include both the terminal condition and the use of medical aid in dying. The bill also makes clear that such deaths would not be classified as suicide or homicide.

Supporters of the legislation argue that clearer reporting standards would provide greater accountability and consistency in reporting for medical records, public health data, and public trust.

Senate Bill 3937 has been referred to committee for further review.