Today, Reps. Brad Wenstrup (R-OH) and Lou Correa (D-CA) presented a resolution in Washington, D.C., titled “expressing the sense of the Congress that assisted suicide puts everyone, including those most vulnerable, at risk of deadly harm.”
The resolution aims to shed light on the dangers associated with physician-assisted suicide, highlighting concerns about the well-being of seniors and individuals with disabilities. It comes in response to a report released in 2019 by the National Council on Disability, recommending that Congress take action to address the risks posed by assisted suicide laws.
“As a physician, I believe physician-assisted suicide fundamentally goes against our duty to ‘first, do no harm’ and puts our nation’s most vulnerable – seniors and individuals with disabilities – at grave risk,” stated Rep. Wenstrup. “We must not lose sight of the undeniable fact that every life has intrinsic value and is worth protecting.”
Rep. Correa echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of ensuring access to quality healthcare and suicide prevention care for all Americans, including those with disabilities. He stressed the need for continued efforts to address the mental health crisis and provide resources to those in need.
The resolution also garnered support from other lawmakers, including Reps. Greg Murphy and Chris Smith, who emphasized the need to prioritize palliative and hospice care over assisted suicide. They underscored the ethical concerns surrounding assisted suicide and advocated for protecting vulnerable individuals.
Matt Vallière, Executive Director of Patients Rights Action Fund, commended the bipartisan effort, noting the inherently discriminatory nature of assisted suicide laws. He urged lawmakers to support the resolution, which exposes the dangers associated with assisted suicide.
Vincenzo Piscopo, President and CEO of United Spinal Association, emphasized the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and expressed opposition to assisted suicide laws. He highlighted the importance of addressing underlying problems rather than facilitating suicide.
Diane Coleman, President and CEO of Not Dead Yet, applauded the bipartisan initiative, stressing the need to counter myths about legalized assisted suicide. She emphasized the risks of creating a two-tiered system that results in death for socially devalued groups.
The resolution represents a collaborative effort to raise awareness about the risks of physician-assisted suicide and advocate for policies that prioritize the well-being of all individuals, regardless of their health or disability status.
