On Tuesday February 13, 2024, Members of Parliament voted on Bill C-62. This bill amends the Criminal Code to provide that persons are not eligible, until March 17, 2027, to receive medical assistance in dying if their sole underlying medical condition is a mental illness.
This new bill proposes a Parliamentary review. A thorough examination concerning the eligibility of individuals whose primary medical condition is mental illness to access medical assistance in dying will be conducted by a Joint Committee of both Houses of Parliament established for this purpose.
The Bill passed 272 – 32. Everyone voted in favour except for the Bloc.
But it’s not finished yet. Before it can obtain Royal Assent, the bill must now navigate through the Senate. With limited time available, let's pray that the Senate swiftly approves it without delay.
Currently, the Criminal Code says that persons with mental illness could be eligible to receive MAiD on March 17, 2024. This bill moves the date to 2027.
While it's not the complete halt we are praying for and firmly believe should occur, delaying MAiD for mental illness offers better protection for people in vulnerable moments, at least temporarily slowing down the rapid expansion of MAiD.
Let's keep praying for our Members of Parliament and Senators. Pray for the new joint committee to have profound insight in making decisions that are fair and just, especially for vulnerable individuals like those grappling with mental illness. Pray that their motivations stem from a sincere desire to do what's right, rather than merely seeing this as a matter of social justice for people dealing with mental health challenges. Pray that respect for the sanctity of life would weigh heavy on them.
“This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live”
Deuteronomy 30:19
“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
Micah 6:8