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Personal stories help people understand the importance of Death with Dignity legislation, and how it's being enacted.
Illinois
CURRENT STATUS: Legal, Under Threat
Protect end-of-life freedom in Illinois!
The Illinois End-of-Life Options for Terminally Ill Patients Act (effective September 16, 2026) ensures that terminally ill patients have the right to a peaceful death on their own terms — but we must stay vigilant to protect this hard-won right.
Three Ways You Can Take Action
- Share your story. If you are living with a terminal illness, lost someone you love, or believe deeply in personal autonomy and dignity at the end of life, your voice matters.
- Learn how you can advocate for Death with Dignity in Illinois.
- Learn about the law and stay informed on legislative updates.
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Join the movement! Sign the petition to support Death with Dignity.
Illinois
Timeline of Death with Dignity in Illinois
2026
2026
Repeal Does Not Advance
Republican Representative Brad Halbrook introduces HB4381, a bill that would repeal the End-of-Life Options for Terminally Ill Patients Act, eliminating an existing Death with Dignity law that was signed by Governor Pritzker just last month.
This law received a full and thoughtful hearing during the 2025 legislative session. It was openly debated. Medical experts testified. Families and advocates courageously shared deeply personal stories. And after careful consideration, Governor Pritzker made a deliberate decision to sign it into law.
Now, a legislator opposed to the law based on personal religious beliefs has introduced HB4381 to repeal it.
The session ends and HB4381 does not advance.
2025
2025
JB Pritzker Signs SB1950 Into Law
On December 12, JB Pritzker signs the Illinois End-of-Life Options for Terminally Ill Patients Act (SB1950), also known as Deb’s Law. Illinois is the first Midwest state and 13th jurisdiction to pass a medical aid in dying law.
The law goes into effect on September 16, 2026
2024
2024
Bill Does Not Advance
In February 2024, the Illinois legislature introduced the End of Life Option Act (SB3499). The bill passed the first reading and is referred to the Senate Assignments committee and the Senate Executive Committee. SB3499 is referred to the Senate Subcommittee on End-of-Life Issues. The bill dies and does not advance.
1997
1997
First Aid-in-Dying Bills Introduced
Illinois considers physician-assisted dying bills (HB601 and SB948). The bills do not advance.
