The introduction of Bill 18 by the Alberta government holds severe implications for medical assistance in dying (MAID) accessibility across the province. Under this new legislation, MAID would only be available to individuals whose death is reasonably foreseeable within 12 months. This proposed change effectively enacts a prohibition on Track 2 cases—those who do not have a reasonably foreseeable death timeline—and makes it nearly impossible for individuals with conditions such as dementia to access MAID.

Bill 18 directly contradicts the principles of autonomy and dignity that lie at the heart of Canada's federal MAID legislation. It disregards the suffering of those who may not have a predictable life expectancy but nonetheless experience intolerable pain and a diminished quality of life. It is a regression in the rights of Albertans, stripping away the choice and agency over their end-of-life decisions.

Statistics from Health Canada indicate that many individuals who opt for MAID do so not only due to physical suffering but also due to the loss of autonomy and the inability to enjoy life. Narrowing the eligibility criteria to such an extent could force countless Albertans to endure prolonged suffering against their wishes.

Furthermore, Bill 18 introduces additional barriers to healthcare professionals providing MAID services. Prohibiting nurse practitioners and other qualified medical professionals from administering MAID without a physician present will disproportionately affect rural and underserved communities, where there are fewer doctors available.

Prohibiting capable healthcare providers from participating in MAID could delay critical end-of-life care, thus violating the Canadian Supreme Court's ruling in Carter v. Canada, which recognizes that all Canadians have the right to a dignified death.

We urge the Alberta government to reconsider and amend Bill 18 with input from stakeholders, including healthcare practitioners, ethicists, and affected families, to ensure that all Albertans have equitable access to MAID.

Please sign this petition to protect the rights and dignity of all Albertans and oppose Bill 18. Your signature can make a difference in reshaping policies that impact the fundamental rights to healthcare and autonomy for Albertans.

Also, go to Dying with Dignity Canada's webpage to submit a letter to Danielle Smith and your elected MLA and MP:  https://www.dyingwithdignity.ca/advocacy/why-should-new-alberta-legislation-worry-you-ab/