Delaware Live
By Claudia Estrada
May 21st, 2025
After years of advocacy, Delaware passes End-of-Life Options Law: Delaware has become the latest state to legalize medical aid in dying, following the signing of House Bill 140 on Tuesday, May 20th, 2025.
The new law, titled the Ron Silverio/Heather Block End-of-Life Options Act, permits mentally capable, terminally ill adults with a prognosis of six months or less to request and self-administer life-ending medication. Named for two late advocates, the measure follows years of public debate and legislative effort.
“Today I’m going to sign a bill that speaks to compassion, dignity, and respect for personal choice,” said Governor Matt Meyer before signing the bill into law.
“This signing today is about relieving suffering and giving families the comfort of knowing that their loved one was able to pass on their own terms, without unnecessary pain, and surrounded by the people they love most,” he said.
The legislation includes various safeguards, including confirmation of eligibility by two healthcare providers, mental health evaluations when needed, and multiple waiting periods. Patients must make a written request witnessed by two individuals, and providers must inform them of all other end-of-life care options, including palliative and hospice care.
Set to take effect January 1, 2026 — or earlier if regulations are finalized — the law tasks the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services with implementation, including rulemaking, data collection, and annual reporting on use and compliance.
