Today is one for the history books.

Moments ago, Governor Peter Shumlin signed a bill making Vermont the third state with a Death with Dignity law. With his signature, Vermont is the first state in the US to enact a safeguarded assisted dying law through the legislative process.

This couldn’t have happened without the help of countless champions throughout Vermont, and leadership from three lawmakers especially stands out. From the beginning, Governor Shumlin publicly declared his support and stated several times he would sign a Death with Dignity bill lawmakers presented to him. Senator Claire Ayer and Speaker of the House Shap Smith fearlessly defended the bill as it made its way through both legislative bodies.

Please sign our letter to thank these dedicated champions of laws allowing for safeguarded assisted death.