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Personal stories help people understand the importance of Death with Dignity legislation, and how it's being enacted.
Oregon
CURRENT STATUS: ENACTED
Oregon
About
The Oregon Death with Dignity Act went into effect on October 27, 1997.
Oregon’s ground-breaking law is the first of its kind in the United States. The law works exactly as intended and exactly for whom it was intended, clearing a path for other states to follow.
Timeline of Death with Dignity in Oregon
2023
2023
- On January 9, 2023 an amendment (HB 2279) to the Oregon Death with Dignity Act is introduced. This amendment would remove the Oregon residency requirement on passage.
- In February, the Oregon Judiciary Committee introduces SB891. This amendment expands access to the Death with Dignity Act for qualified patients.
2019
2019
On July 23, Governor Kate Brown signs into law a bill giving physicians the ability to waive the 15-day waiting period for patients who are imminently dying. The law went into effect on January 1, 2020.
2006
2006
The Federal Government loses its case against the Oregon law. The U.S. Supreme Court rules that Oregon physicians can prescribe life-ending medication under the Oregon Death with Dignity Act.
1997
1997
Once again, voters approve the Oregon Death with Dignity Act after a three-year legal battle with the federal government. This time, the law passes by an even greater margin. Federal attempts to intervene will continue through 2006.
1994
1994
Voters approve the Oregon Death with Dignity Act by ballot.
