Medical aid in dying is now authorized in New York. Governor Kathy Hochul signed the Medical Aid in Dying Act on February 6, 2026. The law will take effect on August 5, 2026, expanding end-of-life options for terminally ill New Yorkers and affirming their right to make informed, compassionate decisions at the end of life.
This landmark achievement is the result of more than a decade of advocacy led by Compassion & Choices, alongside allied organizations and hundreds of New Yorkers who shared their stories, raised their voices, and urged lawmakers to act. Together, they helped build the understanding and momentum necessary to pass this long-awaited legislation.
Compassion & Choices extends deep gratitude to Governor Hochul for signing the bill into law, and to the legislative champions who made this moment possible: Assemblymember Amy Paulin, who carried the bill from its original introduction in 2015 through enactment; Senator Diane Savino, who advanced the legislation during key years; Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal, who shepherded it through passage in both chambers; and Senator Gustavo Rivera, who sponsored the bill at the finish line.
Additional information about implementation, guidance, and access will be posted as it becomes available. Please check back on this page for updates, and visit our events page for information about upcoming educational and community events.
The New York State Department of Health has released proposed regulations to implement the Medical Aid in Dying Act, an important step toward ensuring that eligible terminally ill New Yorkers can access this option when the law takes effect on August 5, 2026. The regulations provide guidance on key aspects of the law, including eligibility, the request process, self-administration requirements, and provider responsibilities. The Department is currently accepting public comments on the proposed regulations and has announced that additional public information, comprehensive guidance, and implementation resources will be made available in the coming weeks through its website. Please check back for updates as new information becomes available.
You can see information about the regulations and the forthcoming guidance by visiting the Department’s website by clicking this link.
Send a note of gratitude of your own to your elected officials, Assemblymember Paulin, Senator Hoylman-Sigal, and Governor Kathy Hochul.
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For New Yorkers facing their final months, weeks, or days with a terminal illness, New York’s Medical Aid in Dying will provide comfort and compassion.