August 31, 2015. Brittany Maynard brought end-of-life decisions to the attention of Californians, but nearly a year after her death state law still prevents terminally ill patients from ending their lives. But a bill has been introduced that might change that. By introducing the legislation during an extraordinary session, its authors hope they can bypass some of the opposition that prevented the bill from making it to a vote earlier in the year. Will this controversial bill pass, despite strong opposition from religious and disability groups? Does it contain sufficient protections for vulnerable populations like the elderly and disabled? Our host Joseph Pace discusses these questions and more with our guests.
Guests:
David Chiu – Member of the California State Assembly and sponsor of the proposed legislation
Dan Diaz – Husband of Brittany Maynard and advocate for expanding the availability of end of life options and
Mark Romoser- a disability rights advocate who has worked to prevent what opponents of the legislation term “assisted suicide”