Bill would make Vermont second state to allow doctor-assisted suicide

Published: 2007-03-07

MONTPELIER, Vt. (CNS) -- Father Jay C. Haskin agrees with Vermont Gov. James Douglas that Vermont should become an "e-state." But unlike the governor's "e" for electronic, Father Haskin's "e" stands for ethical. "Vermont is in a unique position to lead the nation in becoming an e-state -- an ethical state," Father Haskin said at a Vermont Senate Health and Welfare Committee public hearing on physician-assisted suicide at the Statehouse in Montpelier Feb. 27. The bill would allow physicians to assist in the death of terminally ill patients. "Vermont should be known for the highest ethical standards and promote the dignity and sanctity of life," Father Haskin said in opposing the measure. "Vermont should not be known as a d-state where death by suicide is sanctioned and permitted."

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