Canada to indefinitely bar mental illness as sole reason for access to euthanasia

Canada’s federal government plans legislation to indefinitely exclude people whose only medical condition is mental illness from medical assistance in dying. Justice Minister Sean Fraser announced the move on Wednesday, saying the government considered it the right course despite disagreement.

The proposal comes amid debate over eligibility for assisted death. Canada first limited the practice to people nearing death, but lawmakers expanded access after a 2019 Quebec court ruling found the existing restriction unconstitutional.

Supporters of access for people with mental illness alone argue the exclusion violates constitutional rights and access to healthcare. Fraser said a legal challenge by Dying With Dignity Canada could influence the forthcoming legislation.

Fraser did not specify when the bill would be introduced. Quebec is currently the only jurisdiction allowing these requests, and provinces will decide whether to permit advance requests; Alberta has said it will not. The proposed law would also address protections for doctors providing the service.