The controversial legislation is now returning to the Senate floor before a possible final vote in the lower chamber
France’s lower chamber of parliament has approved a controversial assisted dying bill that would allow some seriously ill adults to request a lethal injection. The legislation has been backed by French President Emmanuel Macron but has met strong opposition from conservative parties and the Catholic clergy.
The National Assembly, which is dominated by left-leaning and progressive parties, approved the text on Tuesday by 295 votes to 232, with 35 abstentions. La France Insoumise, Socialists, Greens, and Communists largely backed it, while the right-wing National Rally and the Republican Right group voted mostly against; several other factions were split on the vote.
According to the bill, a patient must be at least 18, French or be a legal resident, have a serious and incurable life-threatening illness at an advanced or terminal stage, suffer in a way that is refractory to treatment or unbearable, and be able to express a free and informed wish. A doctor would consult another practitioner, a specialist and, if needed, a psychiatrist; the decision must come within 15 days, followed by at least two days for reflection.
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