Virginia assisted suicide bill poses ‘deadly harm’ to ‘most vulnerable,’ bishops warn

Catholic bishops in Virginia are expressing concern over proposed legislation, Senate Bill 280, which would legalize assisted suicide. Bishops Michael Burbidge of Arlington and Barry Knestout of Richmond have urged Virginians to oppose the bill by contacting their state politicians. The bill, also known as the “Death with Dignity” bill, allows adults with terminal conditions to request medication to end their lives. The bishops argue that every suicide is a tragedy and that legalizing assisted suicide would endanger vulnerable populations. The bill is pending a vote in the Virginia state senate and is already legal in several other states.

For more information see Timothy H.J. Nerozzi “Virginia assisted suicide bill poses ‘deadly harm’ to ‘most vulnderable,’ bishops warn”, Fox News, February 8, 2024.