Status of Medical aid in dying
The Maryland Legislature considered bills in both the House and Senate to authorize medical aid in dying in 2023.
The Maryland End of Life Option Act (SB845), aka The Honorable Elijah E. Cummings and the Honorable Shane E. Pendergrass Act, was introduced in the Senate on February 6, 2023. The House companion bill (HB933) was introduced on February 13. Despite a flurry of hearings in committees in both chambers, our bills did not advance.
The Maryland End of Life Option Act (SB845), aka The Honorable Elijah E. Cummings and the Honorable Shane E. Pendergrass Act, was introduced in the Senate on February 6, 2023. The House companion bill (HB933) was introduced on February 13. Despite a flurry of hearings in committees in both chambers, our bills did not advance.
We thank our legislative champions and all of the supporters who advocated for this compassionate option. Almost 100 supporters attended our first hybrid lobby day (in person and online), and continued to tirelessly speak up at committee hearings, to Senate leadership and much more.
Legislative Activities in 2023
On February 21, the Compassion & Choices Action Network held a hybrid lobby day called “The Time is Now” in Annapolis at the Maryland Comptroller's office. We had a packed house, with 80 in attendance and 16 online. Speakers included our Senate bill sponsor Jeff Waldstreicher and House cosponsor Nicole Williams, Diane Kraus (terminally ill volunteer), Linda Lampkin (wife of Ron Dickey, who recently passed away advocating for this bill), the president of United Seniors of Maryland, and Compassion & Choices Action Network’s Chief Advocacy Officer Charmaine Manansala and State Campaign Director Donna Smith.
On February 23, after Donna presented to them, the Montgomery County Commission on Aging affirmed they will send a letter of endorsement for the bill in time for its first hearing.
Tools and Resources
For Patients Access the Maryland Advance Directive
End-of-Life Planning Use our step-by-step guide to chart your journey.
Los recursos en Español Los recursos en Español.
COVID-19 Toolkit Get answers to your questions about COVID-19 and end of life care.
Resources for Providers Find resources tailored to the needs of healthcare providers.
