Summary
Lawmakers in Scotland and the UK are considering bills to legalize assisted dying. The proposed laws set conditions for terminally ill adults to choose this option, with strict safeguards to prevent abuse.
Key Facts
- Scottish lawmakers will discuss and vote on a bill allowing assisted dying.
- To qualify in Scotland, applicants must be terminally ill, over 18, live in Scotland for over a year, and have the mental ability to decide.
- If the bill gets enough support in Scotland, it will move forward for more detailed consideration.
- Some Scottish political leaders oppose the bill, while others support it.
- In England and Wales, a similar bill was introduced by MP Kim Leadbeater.
- The English bill requires applicants to be over 18, terminally ill, and expected to die within six months.
- Applicants must make two declarations to end their life and have assessments by two doctors.
- The English proposal includes serious penalties for dishonesty or coercion in the decision.
