Current Interpretation

Currently, there are three states that allow physician assisted death (PAD). The first state was Oregon, in 1994 when voters approve "Death with Dignity Act", however the law isn't actually in place until 1998. Next to follow was Washington, who's laws take effect in March 2009. And most recently, PAD was legalized in Montana in December 2009. Many other states, including California, Colorado, Hawaii, Maine, Michigan, and New Hampshire have had failed attempts at legalization. Currently, even Vermont is addressing the issue and may possible become the next state to have PAD legalized.