On June 20, the UK Parliament voted to legalize assisted dying, which many describe as the country's biggest social change in this generation. In total, 314 members voted in favor of passing the bill, while 291 voted against it.
Once it’s passed through all the stages, the new "Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life)" law will allow terminally ill adults in England and Wales, who are deemed ‘mentally competent’ and have six months or less left to live, to choose to terminate their life with medical assistance.
Those who support the law believe that the change will help alleviate suffering for many. However, opponents claim that vulnerable people may be taken advantage of by being forced into making the decision to end their lives.
Next, the bill will proceed to the House of Lords for further scrutiny. Traditionally, the House of Lords does not block legislation passed by the House of Commons, but further amendments may be expected.
Indeed, the legal status of assisted dying varies widely from country to country. In many countries around the world, it is completely illegal, whereas in others it is legal in very specific circumstances.
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