Assembly Bill 1164 introduces a new chapter, Chapter 156, titled the "Our Care, Our Options Act," which allows qualified individuals—specifically, adults aged 18 and older who are mentally capable and diagnosed with a terminal disease with a prognosis of six months or less—to voluntarily request a prescription for medication to end their lives. The bill outlines the process for making such a request, which includes both an oral and a written request, with specific waiting periods and requirements for confirmation of the individual's mental capability and the terminal nature of their illness. It also mandates that attending providers, who must be licensed physicians, advanced practice registered nurses, or physician assistants, adhere to strict guidelines to ensure that the request is made voluntarily and without coercion.

Additionally, the bill establishes protections for healthcare providers who choose to participate in this process, allowing them to document requests and transfer medical records if they are unable or unwilling to fulfill a request. It also prohibits health care facilities from restricting providers from practicing medical aid in dying outside of their employment or contract with the facility. The legislation includes penalties for actions such as coercion or altering requests and ensures that insurance policies cannot be affected by an individual's decision to seek or rescind a request for medication under this act. Overall, the bill aims to provide a legal framework for medical aid in dying while ensuring informed consent and protecting both patients and providers.