Delaware Governor John Carney vetoed a controversial bill permitting doctor-assisted suicide on Friday, citing his fundamental moral opposition. Carney has consistently resisted the legislation, which narrowly passed in both the House and Senate. In his veto letter, Carney referenced the American Medical Association's stance that physician-assisted suicide contradicts a doctor's role as a healer.
Democratic lawmakers criticized Carney for allowing personal beliefs to override the majority's will. Rep. Paul Baumbach, the bill's sponsor, argued that final decisions for dying individuals should not be influenced by one person's personal beliefs and revealed a plan to seek a veto override. But efforts to overturn the veto face complications with Baumbach's imminent retirement and House Speaker Valerie Longhurst's recent election defeat; their terms will finish Nov. 5.
Senate Democrats expressed deep disappointment but pledged persistence, predicting the law's eventual enactment, either through a 2024 veto override or new legislation in 2025. Meanwhile, Republican opponents like Senate Minority Whip Brian Pettyjohn condemned the bill, suggesting it devalues certain lives. In contrast, Democrat Leader Bryan Townsend emphasized patient empowerment. The Patients Rights Action Fund praised Carney, emphasizing his protection of Delaware's most vulnerable citizens. Presently, doctor-assisted suicide is legal in ten states and the District of Columbia. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)
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