France approves assisted dying bill

France's National Assembly gave final approval on July 16, 2026, to a landmark bill legalizing assisted dying for terminally ill adults under strict conditions. The legislation, passed by 291 votes to 241, allows adults with incurable and life-threatening illnesses to receive lethal medication, either self-administered or with medical assistance if physically unable. Eligibility requires French citizenship or legal residency, age 18 or older, a serious and incurable illness in an advanced or terminal phase, and constant physical or psychological suffering that cannot be relieved. Patients with severe psychiatric disorders or neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's are excluded. The bill establishes a multi-step approval process including a doctor's review within 15 days and a mandatory reflection period. The medication can be taken at home or in a healthcare facility, with costs covered by national health insurance. The Senate had rejected the bill, but the National Assembly has the final say. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu referred the text to the Constitutional Council for review, which will determine its constitutionality within a month. President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the vote, fulfilling a 2022 campaign promise. The debate has been divisive, with supporters citing individual dignity and autonomy, while opponents, including the Catholic Church and conservative politicians, warn of pressure on vulnerable people. Assisted dying is already legal in several European countries and some US states.