Medical Aid in Dying Passes Both Houses

The Medical Aid in Dying Act (“MAID”), sponsored by Assemblymember Amy Paulin and Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal (A.136/S.138) was passed by the Senate this week by a vote of 35-27. This legislation was previously passed by the Assembly at the end of April by a vote of 81-67. This legislation has been pending for 10 years and allows the terminally ill with six months or less to live to be prescribed and self-administer drugs to end their life. Proponents of the bill argue the bill promotes personal autonomy in allowing the terminally ill to die with dignity, if they so choose. Opponents of the bill have characterized it as a disrespect for life. It is unclear where Governor Hochul stands on the issue. If signed by the Governor, New York would be the 12th state in the nation to allow this practice.

Lt. Governor Primarying Governor Hochul 

After much contention and a public split with Governor Hochul, in an unprecedented move Lt. Governor Antonio Delgado announced a gubernatorial primary run against Hochul on June 2nd. Delgado recently stated, “There’s an absence of bold, decisive, transformational leadership,” without naming Hochul directly. This announcement comes after declaring in February that he will not run for re-election with Hochul as her running mate next year, yet he still remains the Lt. Governor.

The primary run has been met with little fanfare. Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie said that this is a time for Democrats to unite to face the serious threats from Washington Republicans. Representative Pat Ryan in response said he is “all in” for Hochul and Representative Espaillat said it is not Delgado’s time. Delgado may have an uphill battle ahead with little name recognition and unfavorable polling. According to a Siena College poll, Delgado would lose the election with only 12 percent of the vote if the primary were held now.