Status of Medical Aid in Dying

The California End of Life Option Act went into effect on June 9, 2016, authorizing the compassionate option of medical aid in dying for terminally ill adults to get a prescription they can take to end their life peacefully. California’s Senate Bill 380, a bill to improve the existing law and extend the sunset provision, took effect in 2022. However, the legislation is currently under attack in the courts.

Compassion & Choices and the Compassion & Choices Action Network respectfully oppose SB1196. Several proposed amendments pose significant risks to the current medical aid-in-dying law, potentially undermining its purpose and availability. Read more here.

The CDSS issued a notice to adult and senior care facilities about the End of Life Option Act. Residents who qualify for medical aid in dying living in assisted facilities and other adult or senior care facilities are able to take their medication in their home and can't be evicted for choosing this option.

Learn more.

Check out our playlist of videos about the California End of Life Option Act:

Take Action

  • Attend an Event in California: Participate in virtual activities related to medical aid in dying and advance care planning.
  • Volunteer With Us: Join other passionate and dedicated individuals to work to re-enact legislation that improves care and expands end-of-life choice.
  • Schedule a Presentation: We'll explain the full range of end-of-life options and explain step-by-step how the law works - in English and in Spanish..

 

Tools and Resources

simple blue medical cross graphic.For Patients Learn whether you are eligible for the California End of Life Option Act. About the End of Life Option Act (in Chinese).

 

 

tools for end of life planning and decision making.End-of-Life Planning Use our step-by-step guide to chart your journey or access the California advance directive directly here.

 

 

advance care planning and resources in Spanish, espanol.Recursos en Español Recursos en Español.

 

 

answers to questions about COVID-19, including treatment and end of life.COVID-19 Toolkit Get answers to your questions about COVID-19 and end of life care.

 

 

tools for end of life planning and decision making.Resources for Providers Find resources tailored to the needs of healthcare providers.

 

 

tools for documenting end-of-life for dementia.Dementia Values & Priorities Tool Use our tool to document your preferences to make sure you get the care you want.