Governor Phil Scott signs S.190, an amendment to remove Vermont’s residency requirement to the Patient Choice and Control at End of Life Act into law on May 2, 2023. This law takes effect immediately.

• On April 19, H. 190 passes the final vote in the Senate. The bill moves back to the House to be delivered to Governor Scott for approval.
• In February, H.190 crosses over to the Senate and is referred to the Committee on Health and Welfare.
• On January 20, 2023 an amendment (S.26/H.190) to the Vermont Patient Choice and Control at End of Life Act is introduced and referred to the Committee on Health and Welfare. The amendment would remove the Vermont residency requirement.

Governor Phil Scott signs S.74, an amendment to the Patient Choice and Control at End of Life Act into law on April 27, 2022. This amendment:

• Removes the requirement that medication requests and an examination by the physician be done in person.
• Removes the requirement that the physician must wait at least 48 hours after the occurrence of certain required events before writing the prescription. 
• Extends immunities to any person who acts in good faith compliance with the provisions of the law.

The Vermont State Senate introduces S.74, an amendment to expand access to the Patient Choice and Control at End of Life Act.

The Vermont House passes HCR233, a resolution expressing condolences to the Walters family on Dick’s death.

Governor Peter Shumlin signs S108, removing the sunset clause exactly two years after signing Act 39 into law.

On October 16, Dick Walters dies using the very law for which he advocated.

Anne Vachon becomes the first Vermonter to use the new Act 39.

Governor signs Patient Choice and Control End of Life Act

Vermont becomes the third state to enact a Death with Dignity law, and the first to do so by legislative action.