Unable to reopen the legislative debate over Terri Schiavo, Gov. Jeb Bush is giving up on his effort to change Florida law to allow patients to reject or withdraw a feeding tube only if they put that wish in writing.

The governor had directed his staff to develop a policy that would draw a distinction between the use of a medically implanted feeding tube and other life-prolonging medical interventions, such as respirators.

Under current law, there is no distinction; both kinds of interventions can be withdrawn or rejected by patients, or their surrogates, under specific circumstances and based on the patient's oral or written wishes.

But still troubled by the severely brain-damaged woman's death last year, the governor hoped to change that.

He was unable, however, to find willing legislative sponsors for his recommendations, forcing him to retreat on one of his priorities as he nears the end of his second and final term.

"At this point, it doesn't appear to be moving forward," Bush spokeswoman Kristy Campbell said. "The governor continues to support providing clarity to end-of-life issues, but he's no longer pursuing these recommendations."