Legislative Update: HB 254, the so-called “End-of-Life Freedom Act,” is Defeated


In a narrow vote on March 20, 2025, the New Hampshire House of Representatives voted 183–182 to table House Bill 254, a measure that would have legalized physician-assisted suicide in the state. A subsequent attempt on March 27 to revive the bill failed 169–204, effectively ending its journey through the legislature—for now.

The bill, sponsored by Rep. Bob Lynn (R-Windham), would have authorized medical professionals to assist terminally ill patients in ending their lives. Its defeat marks a significant moment for suicide prevention advocates across the state.

A Victory for Vulnerable Populations

This outcome was the result of tireless advocacy by a wide range of organizations and individuals committed to protecting New Hampshire’s most vulnerable residents. Groups like the Brain Injury Association of NH, Not Dead Yet, the Patients’ Rights Action Fund, the State Veterans Advisory Council, and many others stood united against HB 254.

Their calls, emails, testimonies, and presence at the State House played a crucial role in defeating this bill.

The Long History of Assisted Suicide Legislation in NH

This is not the first time New Hampshire has debated physician-assisted suicide. Similar legislation was proposed in 2014, 2020, and again in 2024 with House Bill 1283. While HB 1283 passed the House last year, it was ultimately defeated in the Senate. In each case, the debate raised profound questions about ethics, autonomy, and the role of healthcare in end-of-life care.

Concerns About the Bill’s Consequences

Opponents of HB 254 emphasized the dangers of normalizing assisted suicide. They raised concerns about its impact on:

  • Physicians, who could be placed in ethical conflict with their oath to do no harm.

  • Safeguards that could erode over time, as seen in other states and countries.

  • Vulnerable populations, including people with disabilities, veterans with PTSD, and teens struggling with mental health.

Advocates for suicide prevention warn that legalizing physician-assisted suicide sends the wrong message and undermines ongoing efforts to reduce suicide across the state.

American Medical Association’s Position on Euthanasia

The American Medical Association opposes physician-assisted suicide, stating:

“Permitting physicians to engage in euthanasia would ultimately cause more harm than good… It is fundamentally incompatible with the physician’s role as healer.”

Instead, the AMA urges doctors to prioritize palliative care, emotional support, and pain management to help patients find dignity and comfort in their final days.

“ Doctors must remain true to our calling: to support the health and dignity of every human being. Legalizing physician-assisted suicide not only undermines existing protections for vulnerable individuals, it also compromises the moral compass of our profession.”

Dr. Aida Cerundolo for NHJournal.com.

What’s Next?

With HB 254 off the table, New Hampshire has an opportunity to refocus its efforts on expanding access to palliative care, strengthening mental health services, and supporting families facing end-of-life challenges.

For more information on New Hampshire’s palliative care efforts, see SB 248 (2025) – LegiScan.

Let’s continue working together to protect life, promote healing, and ensure that no one feels they are out of options.

Legislation, Legislative UpdateNH Coalition for Suicide PreventionHB 254, New Hampshire