Press release from Death with Dignity
Governor Pritzker Signs Historic End of Life Options for Terminally Ill Patients Act, Making Illinois the 13th Jurisdiction to Pass the Law
Portland, Oregon, December 12, 2025 – Today, in a historic victory for patients and families, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker signed the Illinois End of Life Options for Terminally Ill Patients Act (SB1950), also known as Deb’s Law, making Illinois the 13th U.S. jurisdiction and first Midwest state to authorize this compassionate end-of-life option.
“I have been deeply impacted by the stories of Illinoisans or their loved ones that have suffered from a devastating terminal illness, and I have been moved by their dedication to standing up for freedom and choice at the end of life in the midst of personal heartbreak,” said Governor JB Pritzker.
“The people of Illinois made history today. Their tireless work ensured the bill became law, making Illinois the first Midwestern state to pass a Death with Dignity bill through the legislature,” said Dr. Peg Sandeen, CEO of Death with Dignity.
“Across Illinois, residents spoke out for freedom and choice at the end of life. We are proud of their work and of the dedicated legislative champions who advocated to make end-of-life freedom a reality.”
Legislative champions—including Chief Sponsors Senator Linda Holmes and Senate co-sponsor Adriane Johnson—along with dozens of co-sponsors, worked tirelessly to ensure the Illinois Senate knew the votes were in place to pass the bill this session.
Illinois is the second state to officially sign medical aid in dying legislation into law this year. In May, Delaware’s Governor Matt Meyer signed their bill, which goes into effect in 2026. New York’s Medical Aid in Dying Act passed the legislature, and is still awaiting Governor Kathy Hochul’s signature. Governor Pritzker’s signature officially makes Illinois the 13th jurisdiction to legalize medical aid in dying.
For media inquiries, please contact: Elia Lawatsch: press@deathwithdignity.org
About Death with Dignity:
Death with Dignity is a national organization dedicated to promoting end-of-life options and advocating for the right of mentally competent, terminally ill adults to have access to medical aid in dying. Through education, advocacy, and support, Death with Dignity empowers individuals facing end-of-life decisions and works to ensure their autonomy and dignity are respected. For more information, visit www.deathwithdignity.org.
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