Grasse Dignity-in-Dying Measure Headed to Gov. Pritzker’s Desk

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A measure sponsored by state Rep. Nicolle Grasse, D-Arlington Heights, that would allow terminally-ill adults with decision-making capacity to request and receive medical aid in dying (MAID) has been passed by the Illinois legislature and been sent to Gov. Pritzker for his approval.

“Patients deserve autonomy and dignity at all times in the caregiving process, including at the end of their lives,” Grasse said. “This provides another option for those who are still capable of making their own medical decisions, and it’s important that we provide that option and respect patients’ right to make that decision.”

The End-of-Life Options for Terminally Ill Patients Act (Senate Bill 1950) grants patients who have terminal diseases and decisional capacity the freedom to obtain medication they can self-administer to peacefully end their lives
The measure builds on Grasse’s work to improve end-of-life care and expand options for patients and their families.

“I’ve seen hospice ease pain and suffering and offer dignity and quality of life as people are dying,” Grasse said. “I’ve also seen the rare moments when even the best care cannot relieve suffering and pain, when patients ask us with clarity and peace, for the ability to choose how their life ends. They deserve that option.”