In keeping with our mission of increasing end-of-life (EOL) options for Arizonans, we are approaching the upcoming Arizona Legislative Session with an eye towards initiatives that can garner bi-partisan support. Over the past several months we have been involved in discussions to introduce bills that will help to clarify existing legal language and make it easier for those with terminal illness to have their wishes documented and followed.
I’ll apologize up front for being vague with this article. We have many moving pieces right now and the final version of what we are working on can change significantly. The legislative session starts on January 8th so we are in the latter phases of getting bill language finalized. In our next
newsletter I’ll be able to be much more specific about what is included in these efforts but for now, I’d like to share a bit about the process and the things that we are doing to maximize the likelihood of success.
First and foremost, we are working towards improving access to the entire range of EOL options in Arizona. We continue to fight for allowing terminally ill, mentally competent adults in Arizona to make their own choices regarding EOL care. This is the basis for everything that we do.
We also realize that in our current political environment, bi-partisan support is critical to legislative success. We feel very good about where we are in this regard and are working with well-respected legislators who have demonstrated an ability to work “across the aisle” to pass
legislation.
Likewise, we have engaged several other organizations to garner support for our efforts and we are optimistic that we will have a powerful coalition of support behind this initiative.
Again, apologies for being vague. I’m looking forward to our next newsletter when I’ll be able to provide a more specific update. For now, we are excited about our prospects for the upcoming session.
Note: all direct political activity or lobbying is funded by the Choices Arizona political fund.
