Friday, June 18—the New Mexico Elizabeth Whitefield End-of-Life Options Act will become effective, allowing qualified terminally ill New Mexicans to access medical aid in dying.

Our journey to this day has been long, and as a New Mexican I’m so happy to officially welcome our state as the 11th U.S. jurisdiction to offer this compassionate end-of-life care option. Our progress in New Mexico is a testament to your tremendous support and commitment to this movement we’ve built together.

While our legislative journey has reached its end, our work in New Mexico is far from finished.

Because of the hard work and persistence of our grassroots community, the End of Life Options coalition, and our legislative champions, New Mexicans will wake up tomorrow knowing they will be able to access medical aid in dying should they desire. However, we know from experience that just having a law isn’t enough to ensure that individuals can access the option.

Our access and implementation work in authorized states—which includes providing access to the form required to access medical aid in dying—ensures that qualified individuals are able to find a healthcare team that respects their end-of-life care wishes. Like our advocacy work, these efforts require time and resources.

Remember, there are still 40 states that do not have access to this compassionate end-of-life care option. With your continued support, I know our momentum can become unstoppable.

Thanks,

Elizabeth