This bill seeks to amend Title 36 of the Arizona Revised Statutes by adding Chapter 33, which establishes a comprehensive framework for medical aid in dying. It introduces new definitions such as "adult," "attending physician," "capacity," and "medical aid in dying," clarifying the roles of healthcare providers and the rights of individuals seeking to end their lives through prescribed medication. The bill outlines a structured process for individuals to request a prescription, including requirements for written requests, witness attestations, and confirmation of terminal illness and capacity by both attending and consulting physicians. It emphasizes informed decision-making and includes provisions for mental health counseling if concerns about the individual's mental state arise. Additionally, the bill updates current statutes by removing outdated legal language and introducing new criminal penalties for actions such as altering requests for medication and coercing individuals. It establishes requirements for the signing of death certificates and documentation of the cause of death, ensuring that self-administering medication is not recorded as a cause of death. The bill also allows governmental entities to recover costs associated with a qualified individual's death in public places and outlines the necessary form for requesting medication, including witness declarations and interpreter services. Finally, it ensures that if any part of the act is deemed invalid, the remaining provisions will still be enforceable.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: