Today, the Assembly voted on one of the most consequential and controversial bills of the legislative session—Assembly Bill A.136, which would legalize the use of medication to hasten death for mentally competent, terminally ill adults with six months or less to live. Assemblyman Josh Jensen (R,C-Greece), the ranking member of the Health Committee, led the debate against the proposal, citing serious concerns about the dignity of life and the potential risks to vulnerable New Yorkers.

“Every life is valuable and worthy of protection, no matter the circumstances,” said Jensen. “Legalizing government-sanctioned suicide fundamentally alters the doctor-patient relationship and opens the door to dangerous, unanticipated consequences for our most vulnerable citizens, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those facing mental health challenges.”

Jensen emphasized that New York should be focusing on expanding access to palliative care, hospice services, and mental health support rather than pursuing legislation that devalues human life. He also highlighted concerns raised by disability rights organizations, warning that vulnerable individuals could feel pressure to end their lives prematurely because of fears about being a burden to family or society.

“True compassion means providing comfort and care, not presenting suicide as a solution to suffering,” Jensen continued. “As a state government, we should be encouraging assisted living before opening the door to assisting with the end of life.”