New York is Now the 14th Jurisdiction to Pass Medical Aid in Dying

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Governor Hochul Signs Historic Medical Aid in Dying Act, Making New York the 14th Jurisdiction to Pass the Law

Portland, Oregon, FEBRUARY 6, 2026 – Today, in a historic victory for patients and families, New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed the New York Medical Aid in Dying Act, making the nation’s fourth most populous state the 14th U.S. jurisdiction to authorize this compassionate end-of-life option. When New York’s law goes into effect, more than 100 million people will live in a state where medical aid in dying is legal.

The signing caps more than a decade of determined advocacy, with lawmakers introducing the bill session after session. In 2025, momentum surged when influential voices—including the New York Medical Association, the New York Academy of Family Physicians, and the New York State Bar Association—joined legislative champions Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal and Assembly Member Amy Paulin to secure passage.

“Even in a year marked by turmoil and division, New York lawmakers came together to deliver real, meaningful relief to dying patients,” said Dr. Peg Sandeen, CEO of Death with Dignity. “The voices of terminally ill patients and their loved ones were powerful and persistent. They demanded the freedom to chart their own end-of-life journey, and today they were heard. This is truly a people-powered movement.”

During the legislative session, Death with Dignity supporters sent more than 42,500 letters to lawmakers, dozens gave moving testimony, and hundreds participated in lobby days and statewide events—underscoring the groundswell of public support.

“As more states move forward in passing Death with Dignity laws, it’s clear that our fellow Americans believe in personal freedom,” Sandeen added. “With 70% of the population supporting medical aid in dying, governors and legislators are following their lead, honoring the rights of dying people to choose a dignified death. We celebrate those who fought tirelessly for this law, including the many who did not live to see this day. Their voices echo in today’s victory.”

For media inquiries, please contact Elia Lawatsch: [email protected]

About Death with Dignity:
Death with Dignity is a national organization dedicated to promoting end-of-life options and advocating for the right of mentally competent, terminally ill adults to have access to medical aid in dying. Through education, advocacy, and support, Death with Dignity empowers individuals facing end-of-life decisions and works to ensure their autonomy and dignity are respected. For more information, visit www.deathwithdignity.org