DOVER — The tumultuous path of Delaware’s attempt to establish a medical-aid-in-dying law – also referred to as “physician-assisted suicide” – came to a halt Friday afternoon after Gov. John Carney vetoed the measure despite its passage through the General Assembly.
In his veto statement, the governor said he has consistently opposed the legislation – which was led by retiring Rep. Paul Baumbach, D-Newark, for over a decade – while acknowledging the topic is a personal issue for many.
“Over the past several years, I have listened to legislators, advocates and constituents who have reached out to me and my team to share their views. I also followed the action of the Delaware General Assembly, where this legislation passed by just one vote in the House and the Senate,” Gov. Carney said.
“I appreciate the thoughtful consideration of the legislation and recognize that the bill’s sponsors made compromises and attempts to limit abuse and protect vulnerable patients.
“I still don’t believe a firm consensus has been reached on what is a very difficult issue— in Delaware or nationally.”