X-Message-Number: 3394 Date: Fri, 11 Nov 94 19:48 EST From: David Brandt-Erichsen <> Subject: CRYONICS Right to die OREGON RIGHT TO DIE INITIATIVE PASSES The right to die issue is very important to cryonicists, who are especially concerned about obtaining control over the circumstances of their legal deaths. The Oregon initiative is a small but important step in the right direction. I don't yet have a copy of the actual text, but according to the Associated Press: "Measure 16 will allow a patient with six months to live to ask a doctor to prescribe a lethal dose of drugs to end unbearable suffering. At least two doctors must first agree that the patient's condition is terminal. The patient must request the drugs at least twice, then a third time in writing. It's up to the patient to take the final step and administer the drugs." People choosing this option must be legally competent, must be physically able to take the prescription themselves (presumably either orally or by injection), and must be a resident of Oregon. I don't know what the residency requirements are. The measure takes effect next month and will no doubt be subjected to court challenges. I will post the text when I get it. Rate This Message: http://www.cryonet.org/cgi-bin/rate.cgi?msg=3394