Details are beginning to emerge about the proposed Canadian right-to-die legislation which was recently introduced by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Most prominently, is the fact that it will include stiff residency requirements in order to prevent “suicide tourism.” To be eligible under the law an individual must be able to receive coverage under the Canadian national health care system. In addition, several requirements must be met including a test for mental competence, be age 18 or older, and have a terminal illness that is in an advanced stage or irreversible. This law is following on the heels of a Canadian Supreme Court ruling which found a right to doctor assisted suicide and required the government, then under Conservative PM Stephen Harper, to formulate legislation. However, opposition has been fierce from religious groups that are opposed to any assisted suicide laws on moral grounds and due to concerns people will be pressured into an early death. However, the Liberal government of Trudeau has a large majority and the proposed law is expected to easily pass.
See, Canada assisted suicide bill precludes tourists, Fox News, April 14, 2016.
