SB 136, a bill that would clarify that assisted suicide is not legal in Montana, passed the Senate February 7, 2025 on its third reading, 29-yes, 20-no. It was then sent to the House on February 10 and referred to the Judiciary Committee. The bill was heard in the House committee on 3/19/25. To access a recording of the testimony click here.
If passed, SB 136 would prevent assisted suicide by indicating that consent is not a defense for homicide or assisted suicide. The bill sponsor, Sen. Carl Glimm, said that he is worried that assisted suicide will keep growing, citing cases where veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder were “talked into suicide.” He also shares concern with other lawmakers that people with physical or intellectual disabilities will be targeted.
The Montana legislature adjourned for the year without passing SB 136.
Montana has one of the highest suicide rates in the country, more death is not the answer.
