French National Assembly Approves Assisted Dying Bill for Third Time Amid Senate Resistance

The French National Assembly has once again approved the proposed legislation establishing a right to assisted dying for patients suffering from serious and incurable illnesses, marking the third parliamentary approval of the bill. This latest vote occurred on July 1, 2026, affirming a clear majority in favor despite increasing opposition within the chamber.

The bill provides terminally ill patients the legal right to receive assistance in dying, a contentious issue that has sparked significant political debate. After this latest passage, the legislation is poised to return to the Senate for consideration on July 7, where a renewed rejection is widely anticipated based on prior opposition patterns.

Following the Senate's expected dismissal, the Assembly is scheduled to hold a definitive final vote on July 15 at the Palais-Bourbon. Notably, during this conclusive reading, deputies will be barred from introducing any further amendments, meaning the version adopted this week is likely to serve as the final text of the law.

The legislative process highlights the growing division between the two houses of Parliament: while the National Assembly demonstrates increasing support for enshrining assisted dying rights, the Senate remains resistant and is projected to reject the bill again. The political impasse suggests that the ultimate passage of the law will depend on navigating this inter-chamber disagreement.

The repeated approval by deputies confirms a robust determination to advance the legal framework for end-of-life care, reflecting a sensitive societal debate balancing patient autonomy against ethical concerns. The final vote scheduled for mid-July will be a critical milestone in France's legislative journey on this profound issue.