Eyes are on Delaware this month, as lawmakers and advocates get closer to passing medical aid-in-dying legislation. The Delaware story is one of perseverance and determination — one that other states seeking end-of-life autonomy can draw inspiration from. Last year’s successful passage by the legislature was blocked by a single person — vetoed by the outgoing Gov. John Carney. Now, Gov. Matt Meyer has pledged to sign the bill and helped change the tide in the state.

On March 19, the Delaware House of Representatives passed the Ron Silverio/Heather Block Delaware End-of-Life Options Act (HB 140) by a 21-17 vote. This marks only the second time the bill has passed the House since it was first introduced over a decade ago. It now moves to the Senate for consideration, where a vote is expected in the coming weeks. For the latest, check the Compassion & Choices Delaware Facebook page.

This year’s bill, introduced by Rep. Eric Morrison and Sen. Bryan Townsend, has a record-high 18 sponsors and cosponsors — clear evidence of growing legislative support. Rep. Morrison shared that his support for the bill is rooted in personal experience. His mother, a former nurse who died of lung cancer, supported end-of-life options after witnessing the suffering many patients endure. “Terminally ill Delawareans have the right to end their lives in a dignified manner with as little suffering as possible,” Rep. Morrison said on the House floor, “Passing this act is the right and compassionate thing to do.”

Gov. Meyer, who campaigned on supporting medical aid in dying, said, “I stand with those who support medical autonomy and the right to die with dignity and, if elected, will make this law. We must continue together to champion policies that respect the personal freedoms of all Delawareans.“ The support of Gov. Meyer demonstrates the importance of gubernatorial support for medical aid in dying in states around the country.

Compassion & Choices is wholly committed to expanding end-of-life options in Delaware and continues to drive momentum for the bill through TV and radio ads, podcasts, social media, and a statewide postcard campaign.

Heather Pope, Compassion & Choices Action Network’s Delaware campaign manager, said, “We urge the Senate to follow the House’s lead and listen to the 72% of Delaware voters who support this option. It’s time to bring a full range of end-of-life care options to Delaware by authorizing medical aid in dying in 2025.”

Senate committee and floor votes are expected in coming weeks. Stay informed by following Compassion & Choices on social media, including the Delaware Facebook page. 

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