Sen. Ruben Diaz is no stranger to controversy in New York politics, if only because the Bronx Democrat is a strong pro-lifer. But as chairman of the Senate’s Aging Committee, he has gotten the willies over the proposed Congressional House Dem’s health-care bill, which has an “end-of-life” section that is a euthanasia strategist’s dream. So today Diaz faxed a letter to Rep. Henry Waxman stating his concerns and asking for hearing time. Fat chance that, but a welcome challenge nonetheless. Voila:

July 27, 2009
Rep. Henry Waxman
Chairman/Energy and Commerce Committee
United States Congress
2204 Rayburn Building
Washington, DC 20515
Sent by fax to 202/225-4099
Dear Congressman Waxman:
As Chairman of the New York State Senate Aging Committee, I am deeply concerned that a provision that targets senior citizens in Section 1233 of House Resolution 3200 may preempt New York State rules and practices. This proposed federal health care legislation’s impact upon the elderly citizens of New York State needs to be sensitive to what may be considered a “state’s rights” issue, which may be best dealt with at the state level, and not imposed by Washington.
Section 1233 of House Resolution 3200 puts our senior citizens on a slippery slope and may diminish respect for the inherent dignity of each of their lives. Each life must be cherished and regarded with reverence. This pending legislation does not necessarily provide for that guideline, and needs to be carefully reviewed with a full and open public debate.
It is egregious to consider that any senior citizen who resides in New York State or anywhere in the United States of America should be placed in a situation where he or she would feel pressured to save the government money by dying a little sooner than he or she otherwise would, be required to be counseled about the supposed benefits of killing oneself, or be encouraged to sign any end of life directives that they would not otherwise sign.
I respectfully request that you advise me if and when there may be Congressional hearings on this matter, that you provide me with an opportunity to testify as such hearings, and suggest others who may also be qualified to testify.
Respectfully,
Senator Reverend Ruben Diaz