The French parliament passed a euthanasia law yesterday, finally enshrining the 'right to euthanasia' for French citizens, reports infohub.kz.
The decision came after a record three readings. The law allows adult patients with incurable terminal illnesses who are conscious to take lethal medication. The drugs will be prescribed by a doctor who must first consult with other specialists.
Patients will usually take the medication themselves. If they are physically unable to do so, a doctor or nurse may administer it. The law notes that similar legislation already exists in many European Union countries.
The bill went through three readings in both the National Assembly and the Senate. While the National Assembly supported it, the Senate — considered the more conservative chamber — rejected it three times. Under the French Constitution, the final say rests with the National Assembly, so the law was passed.