Michigan Senate Bill SB0678

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/9/23
• Refer: 11/9/23

Caption

Insurance: health insurers; invoking suicide clauses in insurance policies; prohibit if in compliance with death with dignity act. Amends secs. 3905 & 4037 of 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.3905 & 500.4037) & adds sec. 3406rr. TIE BAR WITH: SB 0681'23

Impact

If enacted, SB0678 would fundamentally alter the landscape for health insurance policies in Michigan, ensuring that individuals who opt for assisted dying are not penalized or left without coverage due to the invocation of standard suicide clauses. This amendment aims to align health insurance practices with the legal framework established for the death with dignity act, guaranteeing that those individuals are treated with dignity and compassion during a critical phase of their lives. The bill is expected to provide peace of mind to those considering all available options for end-of-life care, including assisted suicide.

Summary

Senate Bill 678 (SB0678) seeks to amend Michigan's existing insurance code of 1956 by prohibiting health insurers from invoking suicide clauses against individuals who choose to end their lives under the state's death with dignity act. The proposed legislation includes a new section, 3406rr, which explicitly states that health insurance policies must not deny or limit coverage for those who intend to end their lives in accordance with the parameters outlined in the death with dignity act. This change marks a significant shift in how insurance policies treat assisted dying, potentially affecting many policyholders in the state.

Contention

The introduction of this bill may spark significant debate. Supporters argue that it creates necessary protections for individuals at the end of life, allowing them access to the care they need without the hindrance of restrictions imposed by insurance policies. However, opponents of such measures might express concerns regarding the moral and ethical implications of assisted dying, potentially viewing the bill as an endorsement of life-terminating decisions. Further, the intersection of insurance coverage and end-of-life choices could also bring to light issues surrounding the responsibilities of insurers and the rights of patients.