42 U.S.C. § 14401: Findings and purpose

The Federal Government provides financial support for the provision of and payment for health care services, as well as for advocacy activities to protect the rights of individuals. Assisted suicide, euthanasia, and mercy killing have been criminal offenses throughout the United States and, under current law, it would be unlawful to provide services in support of such illegal activities. Because of recent legal developments, it may become lawful in areas of the United States to furnish services in support of such activities. Congress is not providing Federal financial assistance in support of assisted suicide, euthanasia, and mercy killing and intends that Federal funds not be used to promote such activities. It is the principal purpose of this chapter to continue current Federal policy by providing explicitly that Federal funds may not be used to pay for items and services (including assistance) the purpose of which is to cause (or assist in causing) the suicide, euthanasia, or mercy killing of any individual. The provisions of this Act [see Short Title note below] (and the amendments made by this Act) take effect upon its enactment [ Apr. 30, 1997 ] and apply, subject to subsection (b), to Federal payments made pursuant to obligations incurred after the date of the enactment of this Act for items and services provided on or after such date. Such provisions shall apply with respect to contracts entered into, renewed, or extended after the date of the enactment of this Act [ Apr. 30, 1997 ] and shall also apply to a contract entered into before such date to the extent permitted under such contract.”