New York Nuns Challenge Assisted Suicide Law in Court

Four orders of Catholic nuns are challenging New York's assisted suicide law, claiming it infringes on their religious beliefs. Becket senior counsel Adèle Keim stated that the case tests whether the government can compel religious organizations to act against their convictions. A federal court has temporarily ruled that the nuns do not have to comply with the law while the case is ongoing. The lawsuit, filed by over ten Catholic plaintiffs, argues that the Medical Aid in Dying Act forces religious healthcare providers to counsel patients about assisted suicide and make referrals to providers. New York's law, which allows terminally ill adults to request life-ending medication, took effect recently. Governor Kathy Hochul emphasized that participation in the law is voluntary for religious facilities.