Local News

Actions

Vote expected on Nevada assisted suicide bill

Posted at 1:22 PM, Mar 20, 2019
and last updated 2019-03-20 16:22:02-04

CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP) — A Nevada legislative panel is expected to take a vote on a bill that would allow terminal patients to kill themselves with medication prescribed by a doctor.

Two Republicans on the state Senate committee say they oppose the Democrat-backed legislation, in part over concerns that it will lead to abuse of people who are elderly. Three Democrats on the committee have signed on in support of the measure. Democratic state Sen. Julia Ratti says the panel is expected to vote on the measure Wednesday.

The medication under the bill would only be provided to adults who are diagnosed to be within six-months of death and are of "sound mental health."

Supporters argue the legislation will let the patients who are suffering die with dignity and end their pain.