Medical aid in dying was authorized in Montana when the state Supreme Court found in 2009 that “[The] Rights of the Terminally Ill Act clearly provides that terminally ill patients are entitled to autonomous end-of-life decisions.” Compassion & Choices litigated this case.
On February 21, HB 637 was introduced to codify medical aid in dying in Montana. The bill was heard on Wednesday, February 26 at 7 am MT in the House Judiciary Committee, but failed to advance. This was the first bill introduced to codify medical aid in dying since 2011. We’re grateful to Representatives Darling, Strand, Griffith, Cunningham, Tilleman, Carter, Cohenour, Howell, Nikolakakos, Thane, Marler, and Lynch for introducing this compassionate legislation to try to change the conversation about medical aid in dying in Helena.
The power of personal stories to inspire and drive change is undeniable. Everyone has a story, and we invite you to share yours.
Medical aid in dying is for people who are already dying. It is a lawful medical option for qualified adults with a terminal illness, a prognosis of six months or less to live, who can make their own healthcare decisions and have the ability to take the medication themselves.
Medical aid in dying is not suicide or euthanasia. Compassion & Choices supports people seeking information about lawful end-of-life care options in the United States. We do not provide instructions or guidance for ending your life outside supportive medical care.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, in crisis, or thinking about suicide, help is available right now. You are not alone, and your pain deserves care. Call 988, text 988, or chat with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at https://988lifeline.org/chat/
After an intense legislative session battling House Bill 505, otherwise known as “The Doctor Imprisonment Act,” the Montana Senate struck down this dangerous measure, which would have obliterated citizens’ right to access aid in dying and criminalized doctors who provide it. HB 505 fizzled 27-23 on April 15 after its proponents used procedural maneuvers to…
In December, a Montana District judge ruled that mentally competent, terminally ill Montanans have a fundamental right to a dignified death as protected by their state constitution. Yet four months into this ruling, two terminally ill Montana residents who wish to access this constitutional right cannot find a willing physician to help them. This is…
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