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HB 3497

Establishes the "Death with Dignity Act"

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Carolyn Caton and 2 co-sponsors

Missouri bill would allow terminally ill patients to request physician-prescribed life-ending medication under specified conditions and safeguards.

Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
#healthcare #healthcareprofessionals #physicians
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Bill Summary · HB 3497

Legislative bill overview

HB 3497, titled the "Death with Dignity Act," would establish a legal framework in Missouri permitting terminally ill individuals to request and self-administer life-ending medication under specific medical conditions. The bill has recently been introduced and is in early stages of the legislative process, having completed its first and second readings in the House.

Why is this important

This legislation addresses end-of-life autonomy and would potentially make Missouri one of several U.S. states with medical aid-in-dying provisions. The bill reflects ongoing national debate about patient rights, medical decision-making authority, and the role of state government in regulating end-of-life care—issues that affect healthcare policy, hospice services, and family medical decisions.

Potential points of contention

  • Religious and ethical objections: Opponents, including religious organizations, often view physician-assisted death as conflicting with sanctity-of-life principles
  • Safeguard sufficiency: Debate over whether proposed eligibility requirements, waiting periods, and physician verification adequately prevent abuse or coercion of vulnerable populations
  • Medical profession role: Disagreement about whether doctors should participate in aid-in-dying, given traditional medical ethics focused on preservation of life and healing
  • State-by-state variation: Questions about whether Missouri should adopt this framework versus maintaining current legal restrictions

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

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