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Bill

HB 1876

Concerning the requirements for accessing the Washington death with dignity act.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Beth Doglio and 9 co-sponsors

HB 1876 modifies Washington's Death with Dignity Act access requirements, currently under committee review with unclear proposed changes to eligibility and procedures.

Executive session scheduled, but no action was taken in the House Committee on Early Learning & Human Services at 1:30 PM.
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Bill Summary · HB 1876

Legislative bill overview

HB 1876 modifies the eligibility requirements and access procedures for Washington's Death with Dignity Act (medical aid in dying). The bill is currently in committee review following a public hearing in February 2025, with bipartisan sponsorship suggesting potential modifications to existing physician-assisted death protocols.

Why is this important

Washington's Death with Dignity Act is one of the most permissive medical aid-in-dying laws in the nation. Changes to its requirements could significantly affect access for terminally ill patients, healthcare provider obligations, and oversight mechanisms—impacting thousands of Washington residents annually and potentially influencing how other states structure similar policies.

Potential points of contention

  • Eligibility expansion vs. safeguards: Any broadening of who qualifies (residency requirements, terminal diagnosis definitions, mental health assessments) versus tightening access creates fundamental disagreement between disability rights advocates, patient autonomy groups, and religious organizations
  • Provider participation and conscience rights: Tension between ensuring patient access and protecting healthcare providers' ability to decline participation based on personal or religious beliefs
  • Waiting periods and procedural requirements: Disputes over whether current 15-day waiting periods, physician consultation requirements, and psychiatric evaluation standards adequately protect vulnerable populations or unnecessarily burden those seeking the option

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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