By Mark Greenberg
As the year comes to a close, I am proud and pleased to report that End of Life Choices California’s programs and services expanded at unprecedented levels.
At the same time, there continue to be major challenges to expanding access to medical aid in dying (MAiD) in other states. More on that below, but first I want to tell you about EOLCCA’s accomplishments in 2024, supported by our first-rate team of volunteers throughout California:
- We answered over 1000 inquiries from people seeking information and guidance about their end-of-life options (our most ever!)
- We delivered nearly 100 presentations across the state, reaching over 3,000 people (also our most ever!)
- We were there for bedside support for dozens of Californians utilizing MAiD (and yes, that was also a record for us!)
- We launched our first PR campaign to let Californians know that only 25% of them know that MAiD is a legal option for them.
We also adopted a new tagline (with thanks to End of Life Washington) that encapsulates our beliefs: Your life. Your death. Your choice.
Selected State Updates
Delaware – the state legislature successfully passed its End of Life Options Act, but in a disappointing move, the bill was vetoed by the governor.
West Virginia – a state constitutional amendment barring doctors and health care providers from participating in MAiD was on the November ballot. Unfortunately, it narrowly passed by less than 6,000 votes, 50.4% to 49.6%.
New York – while momentum grows to pass a medical aid in dying law for New Yorkers, opposition continues to prevail, and this year’s bill again failed in the legislature.
California – Sen. Catherine Blakespear introduced a bill to expand the definition of terminal illness for MAiD purposes, along with other significant changes, but the bill has been shelved for now, to build support.
For more details on state by state activities, please visit Death with Dignity and Compassion & Choices, who are laser-focused on expanding MAiD laws, similar to ours in California, across the country.
EOLCCA’s Mission
Back here in California, our mission is to provide all our services at no cost. Whether that is a short phone call or spending hours talking with and being with someone to support that person and their family, there is never a charge. We are grateful to our hundreds of supporters whose contributions have helped to sustain and expand EOLCCA’s impact on Californians’ end-of-life choices in such a meaningful way.
If our work speaks to you, please consider a donation of any amount this year. Thank you!
Wishing you Happy and Healthy Holidays and a wonderful New Year!