The Senate's social affairs commission amended the bill on the 'right to assisted dying' on Wednesday, January 7, renaming it 'medical assistance in dying' to limit access to patients at the very end of life. Senators toned down the deputies' initial text, which used a broader criterion of 'vital prognosis engaged.' This initiative, pledged by Emmanuel Macron, will be debated in session from January 20 to 28.
The Senate's social affairs commission passed a revised version of the bill creating a right to assisted dying on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. Originally adopted by the National Assembly on May 27, 2025, the law allowed access based on a 'vital prognosis engaged,' without specifying remaining life expectancy. Senators opted to restrict this 'medical assistance in dying' to patients at the very end of life, renaming the measure to narrow its scope.
At the same time, the commission made minor amendments to the bill on 'equal access to palliative care,' also passed on May 27 in the Assembly. These two revised texts will be discussed in plenary session at the Palais du Luxembourg from January 20 to 28.
President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed his commitment in his New Year's address on December 31, 2025, stating: 'We will go to the end of the legislative work,' citing the 'question of the end of life with dignity' among the 'major projects' for 2026. The legislative process includes a second reading in each chamber, potentially followed by a joint committee if disagreements arise, and a final vote in the National Assembly.
This debate occurs amid growing reflection in France on end-of-life issues, emphasizing dignity and access to care.
