Senator Cirino Issues Statement Condemning Assisted Suicide Legislation

State Senator Jerry Cirino (R-Kirtland) issued the following statement following last week's introduction of House Bill 835, otherwise known as the Medical Aid in Dying Act: 

"As a pro-life member of the Ohio Senate, I am appalled at the thought of enacting legislation that would promote assisting citizens to take their own lives. 

Assisted suicide permits members of the medical community to no longer seek care for our fellow citizens but instead look for opportunities to end their life. The Medical Aid in Dying Act would set Ohio on a downward trajectory away from being a state that looks to develop sound policies, protect citizens, and help the less fortunate. Ohio cannot be a place that people look to for ending their life rather than a state that enhances their quality of life and provides care at a very important time. 

The prime example of what this legislation can lead to is currently taking place in Canada which allowed over 16,000 of its citizens last year to take their own lives, accounting for 5% of all deaths in the country. Those highest at risk of suffering from this demonstrable practice are the most vulnerable of our neighbors. I will continue to speak out against this legislation and encourage my colleagues in the Ohio General Assembly to oppose this bill."

The legislation is currently pending in the Ohio House.

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