Governor Brown Signs California's Death with Dignity Bill

Last week California governor Jerry Brown signed the state's death with dignity bill, known officially as the End Of Life Option Act. The bill, inspired by the plight of Californian Brittany Maynard who had to move to Oregon to take advantage of a similar law there, will take effect next year. In a statement made after the signing, governor Brown said, "I do not know what I would do if I were dying in prolonged and excruciating pain. I am certain, however, that it would be a comfort to be able to consider the options afforded by this bill." Governor Brown consulted with doctors and a Catholic bishop before he made his decision to sign the bill.

Opponents of the bill have already begun efforts to have the bill repealed. They'll have an uphill battle; a recent poll showed that 65% of Californians approve of the bill, while only 27% oppose it.