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Sen. James Lankford is teaming up with lawmakers from both parties to urge the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to tighten oversight of physician-assisted suicide in hospice programs. In a bipartisan, bicameral letter, the group is asking federal officials to establish reporting requirements aimed at identifying potential discrimination against people with disabilities, seniors, and other vulnerable patients, while ensuring taxpayer dollars aren't used in violation of federal law. Lankford said hospice should remain focused on compassion and comfort, not leaving patients feeling pressured into ending their lives.

The lawmakers also raised concerns about informed consent, mental health evaluations, and the potential for abuse in states where physician-assisted suicide is legal. Their proposal calls for tracking issues including insurance denials, medication complications, compliance with federal funding restrictions, and protections against coercion or discrimination.