Conn. lawmakers to hear testimony on suicide bill

AP Modified

Updated: Mar 20, 2013 5:21 AM

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — A legislative committee is expected to hear divergent opinions about a bill that would allow a physician to prescribe medication to a dying patient who wants to end their own life.

The socially conservative Family Institute of Connecticut and Second Thoughts Connecticut, a grassroots organization representing people with disabilities, are opposing the bill. They argue that lawmakers should instead consider increased access to hospice care, adequate staffing in nursing homes and required training in pain management.

But advocates say the bill is a humane way to give dying and suffering patients a choice.

The General Assembly's Public Health Committee will hear testimony on the proposal during a public hearing scheduled for Wednesday. Advocates said it marks the first time such legislation has been brought to a public hearing in Connecticut.

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