Strong Momentum Coast-to-Coast in California and New York

End-of-life options advocates are urging the governors of two of the nation’s most populous states, California Gov. Gavin Newsom and New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, to sign medical aid-in-dying legislation.

California lawmakers have approved a bill (SB 403) to make the state’s End of Life Options Act permanent by removing the sunset provision that would expire the current law on January 1, 2031. Approved by both the House and Senate this year, the bill is currently awaiting consideration by Gov. Newsom. 

California residents can thank their supportive lawmakers and urge Gov. Newsom to sign the bill using the action alert linked here. He has until Oct. 12 to sign it into law.

Last month, advocates connected directly with Gov. Hochul at the New York State Fair to share why the Medical Aid in Dying Act matters to them. Personal stories are powerful — and yours can help make the difference in the Empire State.

The bill passed both chambers of the Legislature and now awaits Gov. Hochul’s signature. New Yorkers can message Gov. Hochul with the form linked here today, then share it with friends to keep the momentum going. Gov. Hochul has until Dec. 31 to sign the bill into law.

Lawmakers in six additional states are still considering medical aid-in-dying bills through next year’s legislative sessions: Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania and Tennessee. Want to work to improve or authorize medical aid in dying in your state? Sign up to volunteer here.