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.


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