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Pulling back the curtains on wage-theft enforcement in MN; Trump's latest attack is on RFK, Jr; NM LGBTQ+ equality group endorses 2024 'Rock Star' candidates; Michigan's youth justice reforms: Expanded diversion, no fees.

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Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg says rebuilding Baltimore's Key Bridge will be challenging and expensive. An Alabama Democrat flips a state legislature seat and former Connecticut senator Joe Lieberman dies at 82.

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Historic wildfires could create housing and health issues for rural Texans, a Kentucky program helps prison parolees start a new life, and descendants of Nicodemus, Kansas celebrate the Black settlers who journeyed across the 1870s plains seeking self-governance.

Poll Indicates Public Support for 'End of Life' Options

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Thursday, March 3, 2022   

It remains unclear whether Minnesota lawmakers will pass a bill this session which would provide medical aid in dying for terminally ill patients, but supporters hope new poll results win over skeptics.

Minnesota is one of several states with a proposal to establish rules for a patient with a terminal diagnosis to voluntarily request a prescription to end their life peacefully.

In a new national poll, just over half of voters are more likely to vote for a candidate who backs such a bill.

Sen. Chris Eaton, DFL-Brooklyn Center, has helped lead efforts in the Minnesota Legislature and acknowledged opposition in her chamber, but said it contrasts with public sentiment.

"Community support has greatly increased, and I think the national poll reflects Minnesota," Eaton stated. "The makeup of the Legislature is a little behind."

When broken down by region, nearly 70% of respondents in Minnesota and other north-central U.S. states say they would want the option if they ended up in the situation. Some opponents cited religious beliefs in trying to prevent the bill from advancing.

The poll also showed strong support among Catholic, Protestant and Jewish voters.

Kim Callinan, CEO of Compassion & Choices, which commissioned the poll, noted support has grown in the last couple of years.

"As a result of the COVID pandemic, people have come face to face with the inevitability of life's end," Callinan asserted. "And they're recognizing that the current policies are lacking, and seeking greater autonomy and compassion."

In Minnesota, another concern opponents have raised in the past is the possibility of taking advantage of vulnerable individuals. Supporters countered there are numerous safeguards and requirements in the bills, including accessing the service through licensed providers. Currently, Washington, D.C., and 10 states allow medical aid in dying.

Disclosure: Compassion & Choices contributes to our fund for reporting on Civic Engagement, Health Issues, Senior Issues, and Social Justice. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.


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