Virginia Bishops Michael Burbidge and Barry Knestout have advised the members of the Virginia General Assembly this week to oppose the physician-assisted suicide bills currently under consideration in both chambers.
Democrats introduced bills earlier this year, shortly after gaining control of both houses in Virginia, that would permit physicians to prescribe lethal medication to terminally ill patients.
In a statement issued on Monday, Burbidge from the Arlington Diocese and Knestout from the Richmond Diocese emphasized the sanctity of human life and the importance of not abandoning or disregarding it. They stressed that every instance of suicide is a tragedy, and legalizing assisted suicide would particularly endanger individuals such as those with disabilities, mental illnesses, the elderly, and those lacking access to healthcare.
The bishops highlighted the potential risks associated with assisted suicide, expressing concerns that it could further jeopardize the lives of vulnerable populations. They urged Virginians to reach out to their state delegates and senators to voice their opposition to these bills.
The proposed legislation, which mirrors bills rejected in the previous legislative session, allows doctors to prescribe lethal drugs to terminally ill patients with a prognosis of six months or less to live. Democratic state Sen. Ghazala Hashmi, a proponent of the bill, defended the provision requiring patients to self-administer the drug as a way to address ethical considerations related to the Hippocratic Oath.
The bill also mandates that a medical provider confirm the patient’s terminal illness and mental competence to make the decision to end their life. Hashmi believes that this safeguard can prevent individuals with depression from exploiting the system.
While Hashmi believes that compassion will sway public opinion in favor of the bill, Republican House minority leader Del. Todd Gilbert opposes it. He advocates for societal changes that offer better alternatives to individuals contemplating ending their own lives.
Burbidge and Knestout raised concerns about insurance companies potentially exploiting assisted suicide laws in states where it is legal, citing cases where coverage for life-saving treatments was denied in favor of covering suicide drugs.
The bill has cleared the Senate Finances and Appropriations Health Subcommittee and is anticipated to pass a full committee vote. The bishops emphasized the importance of providing comprehensive medical, palliative, and hospice care to individuals nearing the end of their lives, rather than resorting to assisted suicide.