Connecticut House Bill HB05486

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/23
• Refer: 1/17/23

Caption

An Act Concerning The Cause Of Death Of Terminally Ill Persons Who Self-administer A Lethal Dose Of Medication.

Impact

If enacted, HB 05486 would modify existing general statutes to create a clear protocol for death certification in cases of assisted suicide. This approach places an emphasis on the responsibility of medical certifiers to accurately report the cause of death. By mandating the labeling of assisted suicide as 'suicide' on death certificates, the bill could have significant implications for the interpretation of mortality statistics and may influence public perception and discussions surrounding assisted dying and medical ethics.

Summary

House Bill 05486 focuses on the cause of death reporting for terminally ill individuals who choose to self-administer a lethal dose of medication. The bill stipulates that, upon the legalization of a provision permitting such actions, anyone certifying the death must include the means of death—specifically indicating 'suicide' as the manner of death if it involves assisted suicide. The bill aims to enhance transparency for the next of kin regarding the circumstances of their loved one's death, particularly when it is influenced by assisted suicide.

Contention

The bill touches on sensitive issues that have sparked considerable debate, including the moral, ethical, and legal implications of assisted suicide. Opponents may argue that requiring such explicit labeling could stigmatize assisted suicide, while proponents claim it reinforces transparency and aligns with ethical practices in medical certification. As such, discussions around HB 05486 could reflect broader societal attitudes toward end-of-life decisions and the role of healthcare providers in facilitating those choices.