Advocates for physician-assisted death in New York are optimistic after the Assembly passed the Medical Aid in Dying Act.

The focus now shifts to the Senate, where support for the bill has been growing.

Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins plans to bring the bill to a vote once it has enough Democratic backing, with 25 senators currently sponsoring it.

The bill requires 32 votes to pass, and while Republicans have yet to engage, it’s expected to move forward with sufficient Democratic support, Politico has reported.

Opponents, including religious and conservative groups, are actively working to block the bill, citing concerns over its impact on vulnerable communities, particularly communities of color.

Written by B.C. Begley