Last mentioned: Mar 17, 2026
Public consultation period concludes with record-breaking engagement from the public and medical bodies.
The Health and Sport Committee issues a report highlighting divided opinions on the bill's safeguards.
MSPs vote to reject the bill at the first stage of the legislative process in Holyrood.
Final Stage 1 Vote
MSPs vote down the bill at Holyrood, effectively ending its legislative progress for the current session.
Government Concerns
Scottish Government raises concerns regarding the bill's interaction with UK-wide criminal law.
Evidence Gathering
Health and Social Care Committee begins hearing from medical, legal, and ethical experts.
Bill Introduction
Liam McArthur MSP introduces the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill.
Bill Introduction
Liam McArthur MSP introduces the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill.
Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) have voted down the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults Bill, halting a significant legislative effort to reform end-of-life care. The decision maintains the current legal prohibition on physician-assisted suicide and shifts the focus back to palliative care investment and medical ethics.
Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) have voted down a controversial bill that sought to legalize assisted dying for terminally ill adults. The decision marks a significant turning point in the long-standing debate over end-of-life care and patient autonomy in Scotland.