I am an attorney. John Carlson’s article on I-1000, the assisted suicide initiative, is correct. I-1000 does not require witnesses at the death and money definitely comes into play.

Without required witnesses, the opportunity is created for an heir or stressed-out caregiver to administer the lethal dose to dad without his consent. Even if he struggled violently, who would know? With no required witnesses, I-1000 creates the perfect alibi.

Family members often have their own agendas and may also have financial interests that dovetail with a patient’s early death. I do not see it as a coincidence that the majority of patients who have used Oregon’s Death with Dignity act have been well educated with private insurance. In other words, people with money.

Was it really their “choice”?

Vote no on I-1000.

Margaret Dore