Statement by Governor Ted Kulongoski
On the last day the United States Supreme Court would accept a Petition for a writ of certiorari regarding Oregon’s Death with Dignity Act, U.S. Attorney General John Ashcroft petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to review the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals’ ruling upholding the voter approved initiative.
In September, Governor Kulongoski sent a letter to the U.S. Attorney General urging him not to appeal the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals’ ruling, stating that, “I believe the time has come to honor the right of the people of Oregon to be let alone.”
“It is unfortunate that one of Attorney General Ashcroft’s last official acts in office was to file this petition,” stated Governor Kulongoski. “The voters of Oregon have spoken – not once, but twice – and both the U.S. district and federal courts of appeals have clearly ruled to uphold Oregon’s Death with Dignity Act. It’s past time for this administration to focus on ways to work with Oregon – not against us – to improve the quality of life for all citizens by growing the economy, providing access to health care, and ensuring our children receive the highest quality education they deserve.”
Typically, the U.S. Supreme Court will ask for comment from Oregon should they decide to review the ruling of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upholding Oregon’s right to enact the Death with Dignity Act.
Media Contact:
Marian Hammond, (503) 378-6169
Anna Richter Taylor, (503) 378-6496
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