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Personal stories help people understand the importance of Death with Dignity legislation, and how it's being enacted.
Vermont
CURRENT STATUS: Legal
Protect end-of-life freedom in Vermont!
Vermont’s Patient Choice and Control at End of Life Act ensures that terminally ill patients have the right to a peaceful death on their own terms — but we must stay vigilant to protect this hard-won right.
Three Ways You Can Take Action
- Share your story. If you are living with a terminal illness, lost someone you love, or believe deeply in personal autonomy and dignity at the end of life, your voice matters.
- Learn how you can advocate for Death with Dignity in Vermont.
- Learn about the law and stay informed on legislative updates.
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Join the movement! Sign the petition to support Death with Dignity.
Vermont
About
The Vermont Patient Choice and Control at End of Life Act, or Act 39, has been in effect since May 20, 2013.
Vermont’s Patient Choice and Control at the End of Life Act is the result of a 10-year partnership between Death with Dignity and Patient Choices Vermont (founded by Dick and Ginny Walters).
Resources
Our Partner: Patient Choices Vermont
Timeline of Death with Dignity in Vermont
2025
2025
Bill Does Not Advance
H75 would allow naturopathic doctors to participate in their Death with Dignity law. The amendment receives a public hearing in the Committee on Health Care, no vote took place.
The bill misses the crossover deadline and does not advance.
2023
2023
Vermont Residency Requirement Removed
Governor Phil Scott signs S.190, an amendment to remove Vermont’s residency requirement to the Patient Choice and Control at End of Life Act into law on May 2, 2023. This law takes effect immediately.
2022
2022
Amendment S74 signed into law
Governor Phil Scott signs S.74, an amendment to the Patient Choice and Control at End of Life Act into law on April 27, 2022.
This amendment:
- Removes the requirement that medication requests and an examination by the physician be done in person.
- Removes the requirement that the physician must wait at least 48 hours after the occurrence of certain required events before writing the prescription.
- Extends immunities to any person who acts in good faith compliance with the provisions of the law.
2021
2021
Amendment Introduced
The Vermont State Senate introduces S.74, an amendment to expand access to the Patient Choice and Control at End of Life Act.
2016
2016
The Vermont House Passes HCR233
HCR233 is a resolution expressing condolences to the Walters family on Dick’s death.
2015
2015
Sunset Clause Removed
Governor Peter Shumlin signs S108, removing the sunset clause exactly two years after signing Act 39 into law.
On October 16, Dick Walters dies using the very law for which he advocated.
2014
2014
Anne Vachon becomes the first Vermonter to use the new Act 39.
2013
2013
Governor signs Patient Choice and Control End of Life Act
Governor Peter Shumlin signs Patient Choice and Control at End of Life Act (Act 39) into law on May 20, 2013. Vermont becomes the third state to enact a Death with Dignity law, and the first to do so by legislative action.
