Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota House Bill HF1930

Introduced
2/16/23  
Refer
2/16/23  
Refer
2/12/24  
Refer
3/11/24  
Refer
3/14/24  

Caption

End-of-life option established for terminally ill adults with a prognosis of six months or less, criminal penalties provided, data classified, reports required, immunity provided, and enforcement authorized.

Impact

If enacted, HF1930 would significantly impact Minnesota statutes, particularly those associated with end-of-life care, by formalizing the process for patients to seek medical aid in dying. It establishes criteria that define a 'qualified individual' and sets forth a multi-step protocol for providers, including mental health evaluations, to confirm the patient's capability to make informed decisions. Additionally, it creates new regulatory structures for reporting and data collection on the administration of such medications, aiming to assure that the process is conducted ethically and lawfully.

Summary

House File 1930, known as the 'End-of-Life Option Act,' seeks to establish a legal framework permitting terminally ill adults with a prognosis of six months or less to self-administer medical aid in dying medication. The bill outlines definitions, protocols for health care providers, and safeguards for patient autonomy. It details the responsibilities of both attending and consulting providers in the prescription and dispensing of the medication, ensuring that individuals are well-informed of their diagnosis, treatment options, and the implications of their choices regarding medical aid in dying.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HF1930 appears divided. Proponents advocate for the legislation as a matter of patient rights and dignity, allowing individuals greater control over their end-of-life preferences. They argue it provides necessary protections for those suffering from terminal illnesses. Conversely, opponents express concerns about the potential for coercion, particularly regarding vulnerable populations, and the ethical implications of permitting assisted death. The bill has sparked passionate discussions about the balance between autonomy and the moral obligations of healthcare providers.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the measures to ensure that requests for medical aid in dying are made voluntarily and without coercion. There is also debate regarding the adequacy of protections to prevent misuse of the law. Critics are wary of the implications such legislation may have on the perception of healthcare, suggesting it could undermine the traditional role of medical providers as healers. The definition and evaluation of mental capability also remain contentious, with worries about emotional and psychological pressures that patients may face.

Companion Bills

MN SF1813

Similar To End-of-Life Option Act

Previously Filed As

MN HF2998

End-of-life option for terminally ill adults with a prognosis of six months or less established, criminal penalties provided, certain data classified, immunity for certain acts provided, and enforcement authorized.

MN SF3215

End of Life Option Act establishment provision

MN HB2762

Terminally ill individuals; end-of-life options.

MN SB1486

Terminally ill individuals; end-of-life options

MN SF1813

End-of-Life Option Act

MN HF2288

A bill for an act creating the Iowa our care, our options Act, and providing penalties.

MN SF2101

A bill for an act creating the Iowa our care, our options Act, and providing penalties.

MN SB816

Providing for End of Life Options Act; and imposing penalties.

MN SB1530

End-of-life decisions; terminally ill individuals

MN HB2878

Terminally ill individuals; end-of-life decisions

Similar Bills

MN HF2998

End-of-life option for terminally ill adults with a prognosis of six months or less established, criminal penalties provided, certain data classified, immunity for certain acts provided, and enforcement authorized.

MN SF3215

End of Life Option Act establishment provision

MN SF1813

End-of-Life Option Act

MN HF4738

Office of Emergency Medical Services established to replace Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board, duties specified and transferred, advisory council established, alternative EMS response model pilot program established, conforming changes made, provisions modified relating to ambulance service personnel and emergency medical responders, emergency ambulance service aid provided, report required, and money appropriated.

MN SF4835

Office of Emergency Medical Services replacement of the Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board establishment

MN HF5275

Office of Emergency Medical Services established to replace Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board, duties specified, advisory council established, alternative EMS response model pilot program established, emergency ambulance service aid established, and money appropriated.

MN SF5387

Office of Emergency Medical Services establishment to replace the Emergency Medical Service Regulatory Board

NH HB254

Relative to options for end of life care.