(Annie Black) – You guys are…THE BEST!
When I asked for your advice on a really tough bill – Assembly Bill 351 – to help me decide how to vote on it, you came through like a champ.
I’ve received, literally, hundreds of emails over the last 24 hours on this issue from all around the state expressing strong opinions on both sides of the issue. No other bill I’ve faced so far has gotten anywhere near this much feedback.
THANK YOU!
A hearing on AB351 is scheduled for Wednesday afternoon. Your responses will help me ask important and tough questions of the bill sponsor that deserve to be addressed. As they say, “the devil’s in the details.”
I know this is a difficult and emotional issue. And I want to thank you for sharing so many of your personal stories and experiences – many so painful they made me choke up.
When I originally suggested this bill was “gut-wrenching,” I truly didn’t fully appreciate just HOW gut-wrenching it was to so many people.
Since this is obviously such an important and controversial bill for so many, I decided to publish just a SMALL representative sampling of the responses I received. Not to try to change anyone’s mind, but to show the depth and variety of opinion out there.
Your responses have been EXTREMELY helpful in guiding me on this decision. You raised a number of issues I hadn’t thought about. And I think everyone will benefit from reading these as much as I have.
Again…THANK YOU! You’re my heroes.
Annie
From the AnnieGram Mailbag
“As you say Annie, no matter what you do, some are going to say you were wrong. This is one where you are damned if you do and damned if you don’t. But please understand young lady, no matter what your decision, you are certainly not losing my encouragement and support.” – David Brandt
“You will not lose my support if you vote for this bill but I will be disappointed that you could support a bill that gives ‘men’ the ability to determine if someone has the right to end their life. The story you shared is sad but it did not compel me to feel she has the right to end her life before the time has come. It is not our right to play God even if many Doctors feel that they are.” – Tina Campbell
“How to vote on this bill is very difficult and however you vote you will not lose my support. I am looking at it from a religious point of view and don’t think the Lord would be in favor of such a bill. I have always been taught that things like death are done on the Lord’s time and not ours. … I know that whatever decision you make it will be what you believe and even though I may not agree with you I am still with you. I wish there were a lot more in Carson City like you keep up the good work.” – Rich Carlson
“I am deeply grateful that you raised the issue of AB 351 in your email letter and on Facebook. While my Christian faith tells me it is God who must decide when our ‘time has come,’ I also believe – in this specific matter – that the state cannot stand in the place of Deity. This must be, and should be, a decision made between a patient and their physician. Please know that whatever you decide and however you vote, my support for you and your good work on our behalf will not change. You’re our champion in Carson City, and I am grateful for everything you’re doing!” – Mark K.
“Whether it is abortion, infanticide, or it is doctor assisted suicide, it is still murder. Suicide is self-murder, and the person involved is helping with the murder. The bill will also be changed in the future for euthanasia. This is just the first step.” – Robert D Young Sr
“A person who is terminally ill does not have a moral or legal right to be killed. I would strongly recommend a NO VOTE.” – Hugh & Mary Tebault
“Annie, I know this is difficult. But to take someone’s life is wrong. We have lived this story with a 22-year-old daughter who struggled 4 years with cancer. But only God determines our end of life. Otherwise, it is just plain murder! Perhaps people would say ‘but it is humane murder’! No such thing. Our lives are in God’s hands. When we decide we know better we have truly proceeded down the slippery slope. Where does it end???” – Dorothy Mcdonald
“As a Christian, and an American disabled person, living with primary progressive multiple sclerosis, my future is unknown. But I can assure you, I will endure whatever the good Lord intends for me. … This is a very slippery slope. We are a Christian-founded country, and suicide is an abomination unto the Lord. No.” – Julia Barron
“We will hear many heart wrenching stories to get our hearts broken for the suffering of some. I do not deny their horrific pain, however I don’t think passing a bill to legalize suicide is the answer. It’s a slippery slope. In Nazi Germany they started with the mentally handicapped, then went with physically handicapped.” – Barbara Decker
“I have to say Annie I’m angry that this is even a bill. God is who we must answer to no matter the end for each of us. He has said murder is wrong. God even wrote it on a tablet of stone. You or I or the Swamp in Nevada cannot pretend this is morally right. … Mostly I write this email to say I’m sorry you are asked to vote on such a bill that will make you look heartless if you don’t vote for it.” – Ivona Magoon
“The question you ask is a simple yet difficult one. The answer is simple. Human life is invaluable. Why is murder illegal? Why is suicide illegal? Both have the same answer: human life is different from every other life on the planet. We are created to rule the earth alongside God not to be ruled by man. Each and every life has infinite worth. No other human has the right to replace God as director or determine when it should end.” – Sheila Rhinehart
“Not a tough one. Only God can give and take life! It’s a hard decision for loved ones watching a loved one suffer. However, if you vote for this you are opening the floodgates for disrespect for life. What comes next! Stand tough. Vote no! Next thing you know some basement dwelling 20-30 something will want to exterminate old people because we have outlived our usefulness. God will tell us when it’s time to go. Not the state. Keep the sick comfortable and let them go naturally. Not a hard decision!” – Larry Wilkinson
“Please vote NO on Euthanasia!!! No human being should ever even consider playing GOD. I don’t want to see anyone suffer in agonizing pain, but in this day and age there is no need for anyone to endure that. It has been my experience, with my parents and others, that when someone is very SINCERE in wanting to die, that the Lord will take them within 5 days. Thank you for allowing your constituents to express their opinions.” – Janell Cooper
“God never promised us life would be easy and we all have had our share of suffering and pain. However, WE are not the ones who makes the decision when someone lives or when someone dies. It is GOD’S decision and to take our own lives is a horrendous sin against His teachings. I certainly hope and pray that you will not make the decision to ‘usurp’ that authority from God.” – AJ Maimbourg
“When tough questions like this come up, I ask: “What would Jesus Christ do? Or say. The taking of life is considered an extremely bad sin – and I know of no exceptions to that rule from God. It is God’s decision when we could die or live.” – Rick Kuhlmey
“Having read the bill and Hannah’s story, I would ask Hannah if she believes or has faith in God? If she is a believer, she should read and reflect on Job. God has plans for all of us. It is his will not ours to decide when it’s time for us to pass.” – Royce Studebaker
“Yes, this is a no win; however, I say NO! Anything that takes life, whether it is abortion or elective death, it is not right. I understand the suffering of people leading to death, however, are we as a people really going to play God. I will not play God. It has to be God’s timing not man’s. Thank you for listening Annie, this is difficult at best and I’m praying for you.” – Steve Phillips
“This is a tough issue indeed. As a Christian I am bound by the Word of God. As someone who believes God is the only authorized giver and taker of life, I cannot support any legislation that puts that choice in the hands of another – even the person themselves. No judgement, no condemnation from me. I do not envy your position, but I thank you for choosing to be so invested in the position given to you.” – Julianne King
“Do you have a biblical world view where you believe God is the creator and sovereign ruler of all people? He determines when life begins, at conception, and when life ends. All our days were ordained before any came to pass. He alone determines when our lives are over. … I do not believe we have the right to say when it’s over and cut short our life because it’s too hard. I, as you can tell, am a Christian and my views are based on what God’s word says. He hasn’t let me down yet and I trust He will lead you and guide you in your decision if you ask for His wisdom. Thanks for listening Annie. I appreciate your reaching out to us.” – Denise Peck
“When you are a Christian, there are no pros and cons to a bill like this. There are only cons. – just like with the abortion issue. I can’t imagine the pain some people have to endure before they die, but it’s all in God’s hands and at all times. As a country we cannot take over HIS place and determine when someone should die – or not.” – Gail Warthen
“I believe the legalization of assisted suicide is a bad idea. Not only are prognoses for terminal diseases often wrong, but assisted suicide is also one step closer to involuntary euthanasia. It allows vulnerable patients to feel pressured into giving up.” – Peter Scougale
“Personally, Jim and I object to this bill regardless of how it’s written and emotional stories like the one from Hannah. It is still murder. You’re taking a life whether it be humanely or inhumanely. It’s OK to euthanize animals; it’s not OK to euthanize people. Life is God-given and God-removed, not by man.” – Jim & Patti Jones
“God is the author and perfecter of our faith. It is God’s decision when someone dies or not. The grandmother in Las Vegas may still be waiting to accept Christ her savior and be admitted into heaven. As soon as she does, HE could allow her to die. Thank you for asking for my opinion. You are one of a kind, dear.” – Marie
“Respectfully, you know that we are not God. Please do NOT vote in favor of this bill. … I will pray for your wisdom and so appreciate your reaching out to your constituents and us ‘adoptees.’ On your team.” – Jo Belmont
“This is definitely a tough issue on several levels. No one wants to cause dying people more pain, but I do not believe that government intrusion by way of this bill is right. Allowing self-suicide can eliminate the possibility of God’s Healing and the possibility of elder abuse and fraud is opened up, no matter how many ‘safe guards’ they try to put in place. As a Christian, I know that God’s Word does not condone killing of one’s self or others. I would encourage you to vote No on this bill.” – Darla A. Lee
“As a conservative Christian, I cannot go against the Bible. God gives us life. Our end should be in His time, not ours. I have lost all my family to cancer, they suffered terribly but it does not make it right to end life. Thank you for asking your constituents.” – Kathyrn Goecke
“I am a conservative Christian. In 2010 I had Leukemia, 5 brain bleeds, kidneys shut down, liver almost failed, and a mass in my colon. Prognosis 10-20% chance to live. I did survive and was cured of all. Only by The Grace of Elohim do I live. … I believe there are circumstances that warrant a person to want to end their life. I don’t believe it is an unpardonable sin. Elohim promises everlasting life not temporary life.” – Allen Carver
“I don’t want to see this person suffer; however, that is not a reason to stop living. How would any of them feel if the day after they ‘allowed a physician to prescribe a medication that is designed to end the life of a patient under certain circumstance’ there was a CURE for that person’s ailment? … I recommend you vote against this in the interest of compassion and look for alternatives to these kinds of choices. Thanks for listening.” – Janice Hermsen
“For those that object on religious or moral grounds I say the same thing I said about legal bothels: ‘If they offend you, do not use them.’ If your religion tells you it is wrong, then do not force me to obey your beliefs.” – Dan Schinhofen
“Someone who is suffering can just put a gun to their heads or jump in front of a truck. Let them die with dignity. If I wanted to die, I would find a way to die. HOW I die is up to the people considering this bill.” – Ronald Bloom
“My fear is that the bill could be used in a harmful way on people not suffering as the lady you describe. It’s a difficult call but I would vote no. I appreciate you taking the time to listen to the People.” – Janet Lochman
“My concern with any end-of-life legislation is that if passed who makes the decision to end the life? Is it the potential decedent? Is it a relative or caregiver? Is it a physician, or worse, some governing official or committee? Who decides if that life is not ‘worth’ prolonging? … I don’t envy your position. The question forces a boatload of hard religious, moral and ethical questions be answered.” – Alan Bond
“Annie, I’m against the death pill because I don’t trust the government, and feel it might interfere in life/death decisions.” – Yvonne Sweeten
“The slope from legalizing assisted suicide it too short and too slippery to keep it from turning into suicide encouragement, and after that to physicians ordering people killed because it costs too much to keep them alive, and then to government bureaucrats deciding who dies today. … That is the slope assisted suicide can too easily lead to: where government bureaucrats decide who lives and who dies. They should not get to play God, no matter how much they want to! … I am really impressed that you are soliciting opinions on the subject! – Randy Mackie
“In regards to the story of this poor sick woman please vote to let her die of her own free will. This woman can think for herself. She is not an unborn baby. There is a difference. This woman wants to die because she knows there is no hope. But an unborn baby didn’t ask to be conceived. All unborn babies deserve to live. There is hope and a future for them!” – Cheri Varriano
“US Constitution, nor the Nevada Constitution, has enumerated power given to legislate between a doctor and a patient. Limited government means limited government. Tempt not the government to play God.” – Richard Westrup
“If I want to die, where in the Constitution does it give the government power over my personal decisions as long as I’m not hurting anyone else? This matter is a moral question. Government cannot dictate morality. Unlike the moral question of abortion, government has a duty to protect the innocent, those who can’t protect themselves. The right to die must be left up to the individual who is capable of making an informed decision.” – Kerry Noble
“When medical science has no solution; when our faith, to which we are most faithful, does not respond in that situation, then we are left to do act humanely, mercifully and kindly to those we care about, who have no further hope. However, I would never put that much authority in the hands of one doctor. I would suggest a process that…would include a signed end-of-life statement request on the part of the closest available relative, two physicians who are specialists or practitioners in that field of medicine, including the attending physician, plus a sealed signature of county or district judge.” – Pastor Darrell C. Porter
“I am concerned that giving a physician leeway to provide life-ending drugs, or other interventions, may result in a doctor eventually being required on pain of law to prescribe such even if his religious or other personal belief system rejects such an action. The implications are frightening.” – Ellen Pearson
“In short, I believe in the power of people to make the best decisions for themselves. I am a strong Christian, and my wife threatens me that to agree to ‘assisted suicide’ is not our place, but God’s will. I don’t know that I agree with that. That said, there must be very tight controls, so that medically challenged, terminally ill people, are not sort of talked into making this decision.” – Fred Andersen
“If a terminally ill person chooses to end their life due to pain, family burden, financial burden, fear of implanting an unforgettable vision in the eyes of a child or loved one, so be it. The government needs to stop thinking they know what is best for us. They act like we can’t make a decision or even survive without their vast knowledge of life and how it should be conducted. Leave people alone. Let them make their own decisions about the life that was God given.” – George Creamer
“At this point in my life, I would support the bill. But it needs to be closely monitored so it is not taken advantage of. I never want to get to a point where the government can step in and tell doctors who to give a pill to.” – Beverly Muniz
“Even though I find myself conflicted on this issue, as a pro-life conservative, I would support this bill. However, I would only support such a measure providing the inclusion of specific safeguards and requite language to protect all parties that would be impacted by such a measure.” – Tim Fasano
“The sticky part for me is the thought of it being abused by doctors who don’t actually see patients and have an agenda, perhaps. The ‘certain circumstances’ would need to be addressed by a medical ethics committee, and I would assume this has happened before the drafting of the bill.” – Denise Vaughn
“No doctor should be made to go against his consciousness or religion. More than one family member must go along with it. I would not want to see a bill that left it too open-ended so that government could then make the decisions.” – Bobbie Green
“The Hippocratic Oath says do no harm. I consider pumping drugs and forcing tubes when there is no further hope…harm. There comes a time when you have to be able to say no more. A person deserves the right to leave this world with a modicum of respect. I just can’t put it any more succinctly as that.” – Troy La Mana
“My personal belief is that the power of life and death belong to God and God alone. But my question would be: if we make it legal based on this woman’s case, where could it lead? What kind of damage would it do in society? Who else would these kinds of decisions be extended to? And what kind of doors might it open?” – Stacey Rauh
“I do not think it is a tough decision to make. We humans treat our animals better than humans. No one should have to suffer at the end of life. My vote is YES.” – Ray Miller
“I am pro-life, period. But there is a difference between being anti-abortion and pro-life. A child in the mother’s womb cannot make decisions like Hanna Olivas can. She is very aware of her condition. She is very aware of her family. And more importantly, she is suffering. At some point, Hanna should have the right to resolve her illness, her pain, and her suffering, on her own terms. The unborn do not have that same opportunity!” – Jerry Littman
“I think it should be up to the person in pain and their God to make that choice. We have no problem putting a sick or injured animal down because we don’t like to see them suffer in pain. Do we care more for animals than we do for humans life? You have a very hard choice, Annie. Whatever you decide I will support. Keep up the fight.” – Robert Gaudet
“I am a Christian and a Republican. My opinion regarding Bill351 is it should be passed. As a society we are kind to our beloved pets and do not wish them to suffer, thus we make the decision to ‘put our pets down’ when they are in pain or suffering. By no means am I stating humans are animals, but why shouldn’t an individual be able to make the same decision as to their life? Only that person, along with their physician, should have the ability and the right to decide when to terminate a life. This is most definitely not a decision the government should be making for the individual.” – Robin Arndt
“We are humane with our pets and put them down so they don’t suffer when they don’t have a voice to speak up. How much more so should a human who has great reasoning capabilities be able to make their own personal choice. Thank you for taking up this difficult issue and asking your constituents their opinions on such an important issue.” – Tammy Schinhofen
“I was born and raised Catholic. To take your own life or that of another is a Mortal Sin. This is one of the principles of the Catholic religion that I have never agreed with! It is a person’s own right to determine when or if they want to continue the course of their life as it may be when there are no alternatives to the impending eventual end of their existence! … You have a tough decision to make and I appreciate the opportunity to express my feelings! So far your actions to your job for the people of this state are commendable and I will continue to support you!” – Jim Ferrara
“I am a Christian and I realize It might be a moral/mortal question of conscience. But I would never judge anyone who allowed their suffering loved one to sleep more deeply, more quickly.” – Mary Krevosh
“For me, this is basically a type euthanasia bill for the terminally ill. It gives the terminally ill a choice to relieve suffering and to me that is what our great country is all about…CHOICES. As a society, we do not hesitate to alleviate the pain of animals, why should we not be able to choose the same for ourselves? I do not envy the bind you are in with this bill; yet the integrity you demonstrate by asking Nevadans says more about you than you realize.” – Reva Crump
“Although I am a conservative Lutheran, I believe in certain situations, as you mentioned, it is the right and humane decision. If an individual has no hope, let them die when they are ready. Thanks for making the tough decisions and fighting for us forgotten conservatives in North Las Vegas.” – Brian Ferry
“I am a Catholic, but I believe in the free will God has given us. This is not to say I give up my life lightly, and I know Jesus suffered for all of our sins, but he did not suffer for our bodies to be corrupt (disintegrate). Therefore, I encourage you to vote yes on AB351. Thank you for letting me voice my opinion.” – Claudia Fisher
“As a pro-lifer, I have to separate myself on this one. If it were me in this circumstance, I would want the right to say my time here is done, spare my family & friends this horrible end of life. Let me leave in peace. I’m a yes vote.” – Lee Price
“I am Catholic and don’t believe in suicide. That said, I also believe in a person’s choice, especially a seriously ill terminal patient, in serious constant pain. This bill will leave the decision up to the Doctor and the Patient. I would vote for the bill.” – Tom Tighe
“I have a hard time with conservatives using the Bible to make laws. We are supposed to separate Church and State. I guess I am more of a Libertarian and want small government. Government should not be making decisions about our choices of who we can marry, and what we can do with our bodies. This is the overreach of the government. Government needs to stick to defending the Constitution, and staying small.” – Jennifer Arton
“I support this legislation. The framework I use for assessing tough questions like this is one of Freedom. Which approach results in greater human freedom, greater liberty and control over our own lives? To be prevented by law from managing one’s own end of life on one’s own terms is the antithesis of freedom. … I am not swayed here by appeals to the immorality of ending one’s own life. Legality and morality are separate, and ought not to necessarily align. It is perfectly fine if a church or belief system wishes to prohibit its members from utilizing the freedom enabled by such legislation.” – Ben Hadden
“I personally had to deal with a suicide in our family. I was the one that found the family member. We had no idea that she would have ever done what she did. These issues are hard to deal with, but if someone wants to check out, then they should have the options to do so without doing it how my family member did it.” – Dalene Hayes
“I acknowledge the tough spot you’re in with this bill. I support physician assisted, compassionate end of life care. No human should have to exit their life in unbearable pain and suffering. If you vote yes for this bill, you have my support. And if you feel you must vote no, I understand.” – Mary Loftus
“It is a slippery slope. A doctor assisted suicide can be justified in some ways. There are many factors to consider. Does the practice have the consent of the patient? How difficult will it be to erode the proffered safeguards? Treading on thin ice and dangerous ground!” – John McCormick
“This is a tough issue, and one that many people will not agree upon. I do believe however, even if one person doesn’t agree with it, it is not their responsibility to make laws or mandates to require other people follow in their beliefs. In my opinion this is a personal issue that individuals need to make with their families, their doctors and their religious belief systems. It is not something that the government should impose their will upon. … The less the government is able to dictate what occurs in our personal lives, medical decisions, etc., the better.” – Carissa Brucato
“Personally, I lean toward allowing someone their choice to choose to die as they choose so long as it’s their choice and not the doctor, hospital or other ‘not family’ who may have other motives besides the patient to push for end of life. … The bottom line is: hospitals are a business. Ending one’s life shouldn’t be a business decision but one based on the best interest of the patient.” – Robert Zuccaro
“I worked in medicine for 35 years, my entire career. There never has been nor will there ever be consensus on this issue. It is deeply personal. The other issue I might add is that many people leave their families bankrupted when they die these agonizing deaths. Make no mistake, I swing far right and consider myself a religious woman, but I do not believe this is a choice that anyone should make except the person suffering and the physician caring for that person.” – Valerie Fiannaca
“I read your email on SB351 with pride and respect for you. How refreshing to be consulted on an issue/bill for true input. I too struggle with this issue but have watched friends, family and colleagues struggle with terminal illnesses, some of which were horrible to witness. I can only come to the conclusion that we should be in charge of our own health decisions in every aspect. To that end, we should have the right to die in dignity. I hope you vote ‘YES’ on this bill but I will respect whatever your decision will be.” – Laurie Agnew
“Thank you so much for reaching out for input on this difficult decision. I am impressed with your dedication to your constituents and those of us, like me, who are not. … I have to say that people should be able to make their own decision about whether or not to end their life. Of course, with safeguards in place such as a doctor saying the person is terminal.” – Michael MacLean
“No doubt this is a very difficult situation and I appreciate you reaching out to fellow Nevadans for opinions. I am in favor of this, as I know of at least one person that was diagnosed with terminal cancer that committed suicide. Maybe had they had this alternative it would’ve been looked at a bit different than them putting a gun to their head. Thank you for allowing Nevadans to have a voice in your decision. In my 63 years as a resident, you are the first politician I have known to allow my voice to be heard. I can’t thank you enough!” – Gaylen E. Christean
“The bill is not perfect. Despite what I see as imperfections, the bill is a step in the right direction, and I would like to see it approved. … When the time comes that that line takes me below the point where I can have a chance at a decent quality of life, I don’t want the government to make that decision for me. With the consultation of my doctors, I want to be the one who has the right to make that decision.” – Roger Talley
“So long as the subject can give informed consent, it is the humane approach to allow them freedom from what can be extended and excruciating pain with no reasonable hope of recovery. … When disease or a serious accident has an overwhelming effect on someone’s quality of life, the individual should have the ability to end their suffering after consulting with medical personnel sufficiently trained to wisely counsel the afflicted person.” – Fred Voltz
“It’s not about not fighting till your cured. It’s about fighting until you have no other options when your body and soul has given its best shot of surviving but can’t continue that fight any longer. Why wouldn’t you want to make sure that friend or family member could end the fight on their own terms.” – Terry Ferree
“I believe this is something that every individual should be able to decide for themselves. I don’t believe that any government official or medical professional can dictate whether I have to suffer or not. That decision should be mine, period. Allowing a person with absolutely no chance of a future to leave this world on their terms, is not a sin, it is mercy.”- Lorraine Rush
“First of all, I love the way you reach out to us and ask us for our opinion. You are the BEST! I believe in AB351 – a person should be allowed to end their life with dignity – not in wrenching pain and suffering. We do this much for our beloved pets – we should not do any less for human beings.” – Bev Stenehjem
“Thank you for reaching out for people’s input. I feel that there should be an option to end your own life. It needs to be managed so doctors or bureaucrats cannot randomly end people’s life without consent of the patient.” – Craig Bordin
“Frank and I both believe that you should vote for it. However, it must clearly be the patient’s choice with no arm-twisting by relatives. The patient, doctor and closest living relative(s) must be in agreement. There will always be a chance of abuse of the law, so safeguards would need to be built into the law. Thank you for asking for our opinions. How refreshing!!” – Linda and Frank Shannon
“You are in a tough spot, but so are all the other legislators. I believe most of your followers will respect however you vote. A vote for it is a vote for individual rights. A vote against the bill is again stripping us of our individual freedoms.” – Karen Miskimins
“First of all, thank you for allowing us (your supporters) to at least give our thoughts, in real time, to this almost impossible voting decision that’s been placed on you. There is no short, knee jerk reaction or encyclopedic answer to be given that would satisfy any of us. … Regardless of your decision, whatever you decide, you certainly have my support either way. You’re doing a great job, freshman or not. Stir things up and take no prisoners!” – Larry Goudie
“Thank you for a asking my opinion on AB351. I wish ALL legislators were like you. Without knowing everything about this bill, I do support mercy for a terminal patient – with their consent – in horrible pain. Again, thank you for asking our opinion.” – Craig McCormick
“Thank you for inviting comment from your constituents on AB 351. You are the first representative who has ever asked my opinion on any pending legislation. I read through the bill and decided I would approve of its passage. My basic position is that competent adults should be given as much liberty as possible to make choices for themselves, as long as those choices do not result in harm or injury to others or intrude on the rights of others.” – Marcus Jensen
“It’s really a tough issue. However, I believe in your leadership on this issue and will support you whichever way you end up voting. I think you are correct on your analysis of this – you’re damned if you do and damned if you don’t. I’ll back you whatever you do.” – Ron Pitcher
“I would urge you to support this bill. I assure you that you will not lose my support regardless of how you decide to vote. I appreciate your careful consideration of this issue and for all of the hard work you do for us.” – Dave Graham
“As difficult as this is for you, and I know you are struggling with the decision on how to vote, if it was me, I would vote no. I respect your asking your constituents, and I will surely pray for you to make the best decision. And I will not be angry at whatever your decision.” – Jeannette Wiley
“I am one of your ‘orphans’ from Sparks, NV. Though I am a conservative, I have to say, I personally would vote positively for this bill. I believe it is anyone’s right to do what they felt was best for themself, and if the argument is a theological one, well my understanding is church and state are separate. … Just my two cents. Thank you for asking for opinions. We believe in you, Annie! Which is more than I can say for most of our representatives.” – Rylee W.
“Thanks for reaching out for comments and asking Nevadans to help with your decision on how to voter for Assembly Bill 351. It’s refreshing and hope you continue to ask as you have. Please vote no. Thank you so much for asking for responses and for listening.” – Sandi Covert
“I recently read your post pertaining to AB 351 and, to start, I have a great appreciation and respect of how you utilize social media to gauge how your constituents feel about legislative issues. More elected officials could learn much from you. … Thank you again for soliciting the opinions of your constituents regarding this legislation. I feel I can speak for both my wife and I when I say we are thankful to have you representing us and our interests in Carson City.” – Chris Young
“Thank you for reaching out to us and asking for our opinion. This means a lot and is appreciated! I believe a person should be allowed to end their life with dignity and not in unimaginable pain. The poor suffering women from Las Vegas said she does not want her family to remember her like that. I agree. I support AB351 and I hope you will too!” – Susan DeCamp
“First I want/need to express my profound appreciation of your concern for the citizens of Nevada. To actually reach out and ask what we think/feel regarding those issues that matter to us. In all honesty I really need to read the bill in order to provide informed feedback. However, having said that…I personally would want the ability to choose.” – George A. Cassity
“Hello Annie, first allow me to say thank you and how impressed I am with you, young lady, and how proud I am to be one of your ‘orphans.’ As things in life change, people change also. As I grow older, I find myself contemplating things in a manner I swore I never would. Such as this item. This discussion is between the individual, his or her family and their God.” – Victor Kessler
“Thank you for representing all Nevadans even though we may not be in your district. It is nice to know how much you care about us. … You are right. Not everyone is going to agree with what you decide and you may lose some supporters. At least they cannot say you took the matter lightly. If you lose supporters because of this one issue, they probably were not really your supporters to begin with.” – Sandra Jennings
“Good luck, girl. I don’t envy you your position or final disposition on this issue but my support is NOT in question. Your decision, on this & every issue, is and always WILL be, the one that allows you to sleep at night and look at yourself in the mirror in the morning & say ‘I’ve done nothing to be ashamed of; I did my best.’” – Richard Hartley
“Thank you for giving Nevadans a voice and for personalizing that experience. It’s such a privilege to be able to respond to a live human being that actually has our best interests in mind. Thank you so much for that.” – Christine Pasciuti
Annie Black is the Nevada State Assemblywoman representing District 19. You can get more information and subscribe to her AnnieGram newsletter by visiting www.AnnieBlack.net
