X-Message-Number: 6288
Date: Thu, 30 May 1996 07:01:59 -0700
From: David Brandt-Erichsen <>
Subject: 9th Circuit ruling on hold

Another stay has been issued on the 9th Circuit ruling which had legalized
physician-assisted suicide in nine western states.

The 9th Circuit ruling, which legalized physician-assisted suicide for
terminally ill competent adults, was originally issued on March 6.  This
ruling remained in effect for only two months.  On May 6, the 9th Circuit
issued a stay on its own ruling pending an appeal to the entire 24-judge
panel of the 9th Circuit.  Yesterday, the 9th Circuit refused to re-hear the
case, and this automatically lifted the stay.

However, within hours of that decision, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra
Day O'Connor (who oversees the 9th Circuit) issued a new stay against the
ruling.  The new stay remains in effect until July 4, which is the new
deadline for the Washington State Attorney General to file an appeal to the
Supreme Court.  Another stay could be issued at that time.  It is likely to
be known by the end of July if the Supreme Court will consider the appeal.  

A 30-day stay on the 2nd Circuit ruling expired on May 18 (the ruling had
only been in effect for 16 days before being stayed).  I have received
conflicting information on whether or not a new stay is currently in effect
in the 2nd Circuit (which covers New York, Vermont, and Connecticutt).  I
will post a clarification as soon as I am able.

 <David Brandt-Erichsen>


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