“Today’s announcement that the governor intends to sign the Medical Aid in Dying Act underscores the deeply personal and profoundly complex nature of end-of-life decisions for families across our state. While I recognize the heartfelt testimony many have shared about suffering and the desire for compassion in the final stages of life, I remain deeply concerned about the broader implications of this policy change.

Life is a fundamental value that deserves our utmost protection, and I worry that expanding state-sanctioned options for medically assisted suicide, even with ‘guardrails,’ may inadvertently send the wrong message about the sanctity of human life. We must ensure that all New Yorkers—especially our most vulnerable, including the disabled and those facing chronic or terminal conditions—are afforded dignity, care and access to comprehensive options such as palliative and hospice care without feeling coerced or pressured into irreversible choices.

For these reasons I voted, no on this legislation.Throughout this year’s legislative session, I have consistently advocated for policies that protect patients and support families navigating health care decisions at every stage of life—prioritizing safeguards, clear ethical standards and respect for individual conscience in medical settings. I believe our state should continue to invest in and strengthen compassionate care systems, including home-based services and hospice care, so that every New Yorker has meaningful choices rooted in life-affirming care.

As this legislation moves toward enactment, I will continue listening to my constituents and health care professionals on this issue. My focus will remain on defending life, advocating for the vulnerable and ensuring that state policy reflects both compassion and respect for the dignity of every individual.”