On May 20, 2013, Act 39, Vermont Patient Choice and Control at the End of Life Act went into effect when Governor Shumlin signed it into law. The law is currently in effect, giving terminally ill, mentally capable Vermont residents with six months or less to live the option to request a prescription medication to end unbearable suffering. Patient Choices Vermont leads Vermont-based efforts to implement the law. The law was further improved in 2022.

In 2023, S. 26 and H. 190 were introduced. These bills would amend the Vermont law to remove the residency requirement. Establishing residency in a new state while terminally ill is extremely burdensome and expensive. Additionally, a significant number of terminally ill people residing in authorized jurisdictions have also been adversely impacted by these restrictions, as many receive their regular medical care across state lines. Further, the residency restriction is out of step with all other medical care provided in the United States.

The Vermont house voted at 3rd reading  to pass H.190, which would remove the residency requirement from the state aid in dying law.  The bill will next go to the Senate Health and Welfare committee for review. 
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Patient Choices Vermont is a 501c3 organization that educates Vermonters on medical aid in dying and patient choice.

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Tools and Resources

simple blue medical cross graphic.For Patients Access the Vermont Advance Directive  

 

 

tools for end of life planning and decision making.End-of-Life Planning Use our step-by-step guide to chart your journey.  

 

 

advance care planning and resources in Spanish, espanol.Los recursos en Español Los recursos en Español.  

 

 

answers to questions about COVID-19, including treatment and end of life.COVID-19 Toolkit Get answers to your questions about COVID-19 and end of life care.  

 

 

tools for end of life planning and decision making.Resources for Providers Find resources tailored to the needs of healthcare providers.