Should Physician Assisted Suicide Be Legal?

Throughout the United States, committing suicide or attempting to commit suicide is not a legal offense; however, helping another person commit suicide is a criminal act. Physician assisted suicide occurs when a physician facilitates a patient's death by providing the necessary means and information to enable the patient to perform the life-ending act. Physician assisted suicide is illegal in most states with the only exception being Oregon, which allows people who are terminally ill and …

…their own decisions. Physician assisted suicide should be legalized because suffering shouldn’t be prolonged in those who do not want to have an extended life. People deserve respect and should have the ability to die when they feel is the right time and be respected and shown dignity when they choose their time. Ultimately, euthanasia is a question of choice: A choice that empowers people to have control over their own bodies and mind.