Congratulations to Advocates and Organizations on the Passage of Illinois' Medical Aid in Dying Law

NASW-Illinois Chapter membership helps us to push for legislation that benefit Illinois social workers and the clients they serve. As the largest membership association in Illinois advocating on behalf of social workers, consider adding your voice to our efforts and join/renew your NASW membership today.

Today marks a historic victory for compassion, dignity, and self-determination in Illinois. The NASW-Illinois Chapter is proud to have supported the Illinois Medical Aid in Dying bill which was signed into law today by Governor J. B. Pritzker and restores choice and autonomy for terminally ill individuals facing unbearable suffering.

We extend our deepest congratulations to all the advocates, organizations, and legislative champions, especially Governor J. B. Pritzker, Senator Linda Holmes, and the countless individuals and families who shared their deeply personal stories and worked tirelessly to make this moment possible. Your dedication to advancing the rights of terminally ill patients to make their own end-of-life decisions reflects the values at the core of social work practice—respect for the inherent dignity and worth of every person.

This law ensures that Illinois residents 18 or older with terminal diagnoses have the option to end their suffering on their own terms, surrounded by the support of medical professionals and loved ones. The thoughtful safeguards built into this legislation protect vulnerable individuals while honoring the deeply personal nature of end-of-life choices.

As social workers, we recognize that true compassion means empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their own lives and deaths. This legislation represents a significant step forward in ensuring that all Illinoisans can face their final days with dignity, control, and peace.

Thank you to everyone who made this possible. Your courage and commitment have given countless families the gift of choice during life's most difficult moments. 

For more advocacy-related news from the NASW-Illinois Chapter, visit the "Advocacy" sub-tab on our "News" page. Or check out our Bill Tracker which shows all of the bills the NASW-Illinois Chapter is tracking for the current Illinois legislative session.

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The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is the largest membership organization of professional social workers in the world, with over 120,000 members. The NASW-Illinois Chapter is one of the association's largest chapters representing over 20,000 licensed Illinois social workers and school social workers, with over 5,000 active members. NASW strives to advance social work careers, grow social work businesses, and protect the profession.