New legislation in Alberta aims to restrict access to medical assistance in dying (MAID) for individuals not expected to die within the next year. If approved, Bill 18, known as the Safeguards for Last Resort Termination of Life Act, would prohibit MAID for patients solely suffering from mental illness. Additionally, the bill proposes that a close family member must be present during the MAID procedure in most cases.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith expressed concerns about the federal government’s potential expansion of MAID eligibility, citing risks to vulnerable individuals. Justice Minister Mickey Amery introduced the bill in the legislature, making Alberta the first province in Canada to impose such restrictions on federally sanctioned assisted deaths.
The proposed legislation also aims to limit access to MAID preemptively for cases where federal changes may occur. It would disallow advanced requests for MAID, a practice permitted in Quebec since 2024 for individuals with incurable illnesses. Moreover, the federal government plans to allow MAID for individuals solely with mental illnesses starting in March 2027.
Supporters of the bill believe it will protect individuals with disabilities from being offered MAID as an alternative to proper support. However, critics argue that the restrictions could hinder access to MAID for those facing intolerable suffering.
The legislation would also impose new regulations on healthcare providers administering MAID, such as prohibiting out-of-province referrals and public displays of MAID information. It would reinforce the right of healthcare workers to refuse to provide MAID and establish sanctions for violations, including mandatory training and potential revocation of MAID provision privileges.
Despite concerns about potential conflicts with federal laws, including the expansion of MAID eligibility, Alberta officials believe the proposed legislation aligns with the Criminal Code. The bill has garnered both support and criticism from various advocacy groups and individuals affected by MAID decisions.
