Bioethicists Spank Congress

Below is a statement signed by numerous prominent bioethicists protesting the U.S. Congress' interference with Michael Schiavo's efforts to honor Terri Schiavo's desire to refuse treatment.

"Whereas, the courts of Florida and the Federal courts have upheld through extensive litigation and review the right of a husband (Mr. Schiavo) to make medical decisions for his wife who is in a persistent vegetative state, we undersigned participants from the bioethics community wish to express our strong objection to the manner in which the United States Congress is interfering with that right."

It's not surprising that no member of the President's Council on Bioethics signed the statement, but it is worrying that that body is currently considering public policy responses to end of life issues.