Ontario’s Health Minister introduced new legislation Wednesday that — if passed — will ensure insurance payouts and workplace safety benefits can’t be denied solely based on medically-assisted death.

The Medical Assistance in Dying Statute Law Amendment Act clarifies that a person who receives medical assistance in dying will be considered to have died as a result of their underlying injury of illness.

The province’s bill complements federal legislation passed in June 2016, which outlines how medical assistance in dying can be provided. The federal legislation determines eligible patients are those who have a grievous and irremediable medical condition. Two clinicians must assess the patient’s eligibility and the patient must provide written consent.

In Ontario, medical assistance in dying is covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan and the drugs are available at no cost.

“There are many sensitive and complex issues related to end-of-life care,” said Health and Long-Term Care Minister Eric Hoskins in a statement.

“These legislative amendments will support the implementation of medical assistance in dying in Ontario by adding clarity and protection for patients and health care providers. Our commitment is to ensure that end-of-life care is provided in a safe, sensitive and compassionate manner.”

The proposed legislation, which would amend four different provincial acts, would protect doctors, nurse practitioners and their assistants from civil liability when providing medical assistance in dying, except in the case of claims based on allegations of negligence.

If passed, it will also require the coroner to be notified of all medically-assisted deaths and to determine whether to investigate the death. A process for reviewing the coroner’s oversight role would be developed within two years of the legislation being passed.