British lawmakers back bill to legalize assisted dying

Britain's House of Commons has passed a bill to legalize assisted dying. Lawmakers voted in favor on Friday by 330 to 275.

The legislation is subject to a second vote in the lower house, followed by a debate in the upper chamber, before it can become law. The bill would allow residents of England and Wales who are expected to die within six months to seek medical help to end their lives.

Decisions would be subject to approval from two independent doctors and a High Court judge. Western nations including Canada, Switzerland and Spain have legalized the practice. So have some US states. Other countries are currently debating whether to do the same. Critics of assisted dying say elderly people and those with disabilities could choose death to avoid being a burden on others.