URGENT Delaware: Please Contact Governor Carney’s Office and Urge Him to Veto HB140 and Prevent Assisted Suicide
On Tuesday, June 25th, HB140, a measure to legalize assisted suicide came up for reconsideration after failing the previous week. It passed the Senate by a single vote. The measure will now head to the desk of Gov. John Carney. According to AP, Governor Carney has stated, “Ultimately, though, I believe enabling physicians to facilitate suicide crosses a boundary that I’m just not comfortable crossing.” Thank him for taking this position. Assisted suicide can become law without his signature – he needs to veto the measure! Time is of the essence. Please contact Governor Carney’s office and urge him to veto this measure. The Governor’s office contact information is here. Key talking points in opposition to HB140:This bill is too dangerous and will put vulnerable groups at risk, including those with disabilities and those at risk for elder abuse. There is already a suicide epidemic in this country. Since Oregon legalized assisted suicide, the overall general suicide rates have risen.In other states with this law, patients have been denied coverage for lifesaving treatment and offered assisted suicide instead. Health insurers will be able to cover assisted suicide.The definition of a terminal condition will include persons with chronic, treatable conditions and those with disabilities – people who could live many years with treatment.Under HB140, nearly all people who are suffering from mental illness or depression can still receive lethal drugs.