An Alternative View In Vermont

I’m not quite sure what I think of this piece except that it does reinforce the idea that anyone can refuse any and all medical and other treatment if they wish to do so.

Death with dignity

The Vermont death with dignity/doctor assisted suicide bill has been in the news recently. The Legislature has made a few efforts at having discussions about related issues but they have not been able to vote on legislation. I think that may be a good thing.

I have watched hundreds of people die and I have had many conversations with dying people about how they feel about the process of death. Death is something we all have in common. It will happen to all of us sooner or later. more

Momentum Shift In Massachusetts Against Assisted Suicide Ballot Initiative

The defeat of assisted suicide legislation in Vermont has given a boost to those opposing the upcoming assisted suicide ballot initiative in Massachusetts.

Mass. group hails defeat of Vermont assisted-suicide bill, says it mirrors ballot question

A Massachusetts advocacy group opposed to measures that they say would make suicide a medical option is hailing a recent vote by the state senate in Vermont to block a bill allowing what backers call death with dignity. more

More On Vermont Pro-Deather Defeat

Here’s more on the Vermont defeat of proposed assisted suicide legislation.

Voice of the Free Press: Senate draws line at assisted suicide

There is no arguing that each person, of sound mind, should have a strong say in how and when his or her life should end. The equation changes drastically, when you seek outside help to end your life.

Thursday’s defeat of legislation that would bring physician assisted suicide to Vermont shows the concept continues to face a significant hurdle in the Statehouse.

The assisted suicide legislation made it to the full Senate after proponents flanked members who sought to keep the bill in committee by attaching it as a rider to a bill barring youths from using tanning beds. more

Good News: Vermont Turns Back Pro-Death Legislation

Good news in Vermont – pro-deathers slapped down – again.

Vermont Again Defeats Bill to Legalize Assisted Suicide

The Vermont legislature has defeated, for a second time this legislative session, an attempt to legalize assisted suicide — in what could have made the state the third in the nation other than Oregon and Washington to allow the practice.

After nearly three hours of debate on the latest effort on both the process and substance of legalizing assisted suicide in the Green Mountain State, the amendment was defeated on an 18-11 vote. more

Vermont: pro-Deathers Ready To Try Agai

The pro-deathers never stop. They have just been defeated in Vermont but are already plotting a comeback. Stay vigilant.

Dems turn down assisted suicide bill

Though Vermont's assisted suicide bill has failed in the Senate, proponents still plan on attempting to revive it for another vote.

The bill, backed by Gov. Peter Shumlin (D), failed to advance in the Senate by a 3-2 vote. Mary Hahn Beerworth of the Vermont Right to Life Committee says it is important to note that the three Democratic senators are not conservative by any standard, and they all went against their own governor. more

Vermont: Assisted Suicide Bill In Jeopardy

Looks like the push for assisted suicide is dead – for now

Scott explains position change on 'doctor-assisted death' bill

Once again, the Vermont Statehouse is the stage for a polarizing - and personal - policy debate over giving the terminally ill a new avenue to hasten the end of life.

The Senate Judiciary Committee opened hearings Wednesday in the largest meeting room in the building. It was standing room only.

The proposed bill before the committee would permit a gravely ill Vermonter, who at least two doctors certify is still of sound mind, to seek a prescription for a lethal dose of medication.

Supporters call it "Death With Dignity" and note the bill includes a series of strict safeguards to prevent the possibility of abuse. more