S.B. No. 249 Summary

• Establishes the "End of Life Option Act" allowing terminally ill adults in Ohio with capacity to make medical decisions to request a prescription for aid-in-dying medication

• Requires two oral requests at least 15 days apart and one written request, with evaluation by attending and consulting physicians to confirm terminal condition and mental capacity

• Mandates documentation, reporting to the Ohio Department of Health, and psychiatric evaluation if mental disorder is suspected; prohibits aid-in-dying medication from being used as basis for guardianship appointment

• Protects healthcare providers and individuals who assist in good faith from criminal prosecution, civil liability, disciplinary action, and employment sanctions; allows healthcare facilities to prohibit participation within their premises

• Clarifies that self-administration of aid-in-dying medication does not constitute suicide, euthanasia, or homicide; does not affect life insurance or create liability for natural death