The proposed "End-of-Life Option Act" in Minnesota allows terminally ill adults with a prognosis of six months or less to request medical aid in dying. To qualify, individuals must be at least 18 years old, mentally capable, and not under guardianship. The process requires both an oral and a written request for the medication, which must be witnessed by a qualified individual to ensure the request is voluntary. The bill outlines the responsibilities of attending and consulting providers, licensed mental health consultants, and pharmacists, emphasizing informed consent and the documentation of an individual's diagnosis, prognosis, and mental capability. It also includes provisions for immunity for good faith actions and establishes criminal penalties for violations.

Additionally, the bill ensures that requests for medical aid in dying do not affect life, health, or accident insurance policies, and clarifies that the cause of death for individuals who self-administer the medication will be attributed to their underlying terminal disease rather than classified as suicide. It mandates reporting requirements for attending providers to submit information to the Department of Health, and outlines penalties for offenses related to coercion or falsification of requests. The effective date for the provisions of this act is set for August 1, 2025, allowing time for implementation and compliance.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 61A.031, 144.99, 609.215