Alberta proposing bill to protect health care workers from being compelled to euthanize patients

09/11/2024 / By Olivia Cook

Alberta is gearing up to introduce a new piece of legislation that promises to protect the rights of health care workers and hospices when it comes to euthanasia and assisted suicide. The proposed “Alberta Bill of Rights” seeks to ensure that medical professionals and facilities have the freedom to opt out of providing these services based on personal conscience.

A draft of the proposed legislation has revealed a key section dedicated to safeguarding health care workers from being mandated to participate in the nationwide euthanasia program known as Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD). This section is part of a broader emphasis on “freedom of informed consent and the right to make personal decisions,” which also includes the right to refuse vaccinations and other medical procedures.

The draft states: “Health care professionals and private hospice facilities have the right to freedom of conscience when deciding whether to recommend or participate in providing medical assistance in dying.” This language clearly separates the responsibilities of health care providers from those of end-of-life care – reinforcing the principle that medical care should focus on healing rather than hastening death. (Related: Insanity: Canadian women seeking help for suicidal thoughts receives suggestion to commit ASSISTED SUICIDE.)

The proposed bill is part of a broader push by the United Conservative Party (UCP) to enshrine personal health rights into provincial law. Alongside protections against being compelled to assist in euthanasia, the bill is expected to include the right to refuse vaccinations. This move follows the widespread controversy during the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, where vaccine mandates were implemented in various regions, including Alberta.

Alberta Premier and leader of the UCP Danielle Smith has been a vocal advocate for personal medical choice. She has pledged that the new Bill of Rights will include amendments that ensure that Albertans have the right to make their own health decisions without fear of coercion or discrimination. This stance stems from concerns about how people were treated during the pandemic – particularly those who chose not to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

While the draft of the Bill of Rights is still subject to change, sources within the UCP indicate that it is being crafted by a small group working closely with legal experts and elected officials. The hope is that the final version will remain true to the draft’s intent – providing robust protections for both health care workers and patients.

Canada working to expand MAiD to allow mentally ill people to be euthanized

The timing of Alberta’s proposed legislation is particularly noteworthy, as it coincides with federal discussions on expanding MAiD to include individuals suffering solely from mental illness – a move that has been delayed until 2027 following significant pushback from various groups.

Smith’s support for these measures is part of a larger effort to enhance personal freedoms in Alberta. Earlier, she had proposed adding protections for vaccination status directly into the Alberta Human Rights Act. However, after receiving advice that this was not the appropriate legislation for such protections, Smith assured Albertans that a more suitable law would be introduced.

Smith has publicly affirmed her commitment to these issues, stating that she believes every individual has the right to make their health assessments and decisions. She has promised that the updated Bill of Rights will reflect these values – providing a legal framework that upholds the rights of all Albertans.

As Alberta prepares to introduce this Bill of Rights, the province may set a precedent for how medical freedom and personal choice are balanced with state mandates. This legislation could have significant implications not just for health care workers and patients in Alberta, but also for the broader conversation on medical ethics and personal autonomy in Canada.

Watch this video about a fact-checked debate regarding euthanasia policy in Canada.

This video is from the Daily Videos channel on Brighteon.com.