Richmond:

Virginia bishops criticized a bill in the state legislature that may legalize assisted suicide. They cautioned that it would further endanger the most vulnerable and expose them to potential harm. Bishops Michael Burbidge of Arlington and Barry Knestout of Richmond described Virginia's 'Death with Dignity' bill as a dangerous measure that could negatively impact many Virginians.

The Virginia bishops said that human life is sacred and must never be abandoned or discarded. While stating that ‘every suicide is a tragedy,’ they noted that assisted suicide facilitates tragedies and makes the most vulnerable even more vulnerable.

The bishops highlighted the situation's urgency, as the bill may progress in the Virginia General Assembly session in the coming week, and urged the faithful in their dioceses to reach out to their state representatives and ask them to oppose the legislation. Currently, physician-assisted suicide is legal in 10 US states and the District of Columbia.

The bishops noted in some states that insurance companies have refused coverage for cancer treatment and other procedures instead they are offering to pay for suicide drugs. This claim has been supported by various patient advocacy groups and individuals.

In Oregon, the bishops said only a tiny percentage of the patients who opted for assisted suicide had undergone psychiatric evaluation. This claim was substantiated by a study published in a medical journal. The bishops emphasized the need for comprehensive medical, palliative, and hospice care for individuals nearing the end of life rather than resorting to suicide drugs.

While assisted suicide is legal in a few states, there is growing concern among bishops about the push to legalize it in more states. Several states, including Maryland, New York, and Massachusetts, are considering bills to legalize physician-assisted suicide under the names ‘death with dignity’ or ‘medical assistance in dying’.

Lucia Silecchia, a law professor specializing in Catholic social thought, expressed worry about the expansion of assisted suicide statutes and urged Catholics to advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities and access to medical care for the dying. She also emphasized the need for cultural change in how we approach end-of-life care and the value placed on human autonomy.

Silecchia highlighted the importance of Catholics advocating for the vulnerable through legislative action and cultural change. She urged a reconsideration of how society supports those facing death and cautioned against over-prioritizing human autonomy. Additionally, she stressed the need for a deeper understanding and communication of the Church's teachings on these matters.