This article covers the topic of suicide. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, please reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling 988.

Minnesota state lawmakers are re-introducing a bill to legalize medically-assisted in dying, which is legal in 10 states and Washington, D.C.

The debated legislation would enable Minnesotans suffering from terminal illnesses to take a prescribed medication to end their lives over time—a method some see as an ethical means to alleviate suffering, while others fear it could be a perilous path for individuals in a fragile mental condition.

“I’m honored to once more sponsor the Minnesota End-of-Life Options Act in the legislature. Over recent years, I’ve listened to numerous stories from Minnesotans wanting the option to decide, alongside their healthcare providers and families, how to spend their final days,” State Rep. Mike Freiberg stated at a Thursday press conference, as initially reported by FOX 9 Minneapolis. “Their message is clear: They desire compassion, independence, and serenity at life’s end.”

The Minnesota legislation is modeled on Oregon’s 1997 Death with Dignity Act.

Tom Albin, who has ALS, spoke in favor of the Minnesota End-of-Life Options Act on Thursday. (FOX 9)

Gina Schneider, regional campaign and advocacy manager for Compassion & Choices Action Network, told Fox News Digital that the organization is “so grateful for lead sponsor Rep. Mike Freiberg’s dedication to bringing the compassionate option of medical aid in dying to Minnesota by reintroducing the End-of-Life Options Act”

“All Minnesotans deserve a full range of end-of-life care options,” Schneider said. “We hope the legislature will honor the will of 73.2% of Minnesota voters who support this option for terminally ill adults in their final six months or less of life by getting HF 2998 to Governor Walz so he can make it law in 2025.”

The Minnesota Alliance for Ethical Healthcare is taking a different stance, with spokesperson Nancy Utoft highlighting the potential dangers of such legislation in a news release shared with FOX 9.

The Minnesota legislation is modeled on Oregon’s 1997 Death with Dignity Act. (Getty Images)

“Physician-assisted suicide is often framed as a compassionate option, but the reality is that it deepens existing inequities in our healthcare system and places vulnerable individuals—especially those with disabilities, limited financial resources, and communities of color—at greater risk,” Utoft said. “We should be saying yes to better care, not legalizing an option that pressures people into ending their lives prematurely.”

Canada legalized medical assistance in dying (MAID) in 2017, and the nationwide law has prompted arguments about how medically-assisted suicide may prompt those suffering from mental health disorders to end their lives prematurely. 

Minnesota state senators are expected to introduce the bill next.