Washington State Considers Assisted Suicide

From the Associated Press, and reported across the country, comes information about Washington State's proposal for the ultimate end-of-life decision -- physician assisted suicide. Washington State government, through I-1000 (Initiative 1000) is asking its voters to decide whether their state should join Oregon in allowing its terminally ill citizens to decide for themselves that they prefer choosing their own time to die, rather than waiting for it to come naturally.

Millions of dollars are being spent on advertising to convince voters in either and both directions. Religious groups are opposed, of course. But so far the pre-election polls seem to be tipped in favor.

Oregon is the only state that currently legally allows physician-assisted suicide. It has been the law in Oregon since 1997, after a three year court battle. The AP article states that 340 people have taken advantage of the law in Oregon since 1997.

An excellent overview of the basics and arguments surrounding physician assisted suicide has been prepared by the University of Washington's Bioethics group.

What is your opinion? Is this something you feel strongly about? Let us know what you think.

Is ending your own life simply the ultimate in end-of-life decision-making?
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