Phoenix, Arizona – The Arizona House of Representatives made a significant decision Wednesday to overturn a long-standing abortion ban that has been in place for 160 years. This move sets the stage for the retention of the state’s 15-week restriction on abortion procedures.
After facing multiple challenges in previous attempts to bring the bill to the floor, lawmakers in the Republican-controlled state House finally succeeded in advancing the legislation. With three Republicans joining forces with all 29 Democrats, the measure is now expected to pass in the state Senate and ultimately be signed into law by Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs.
The decision to repeal the decades-old ban comes after the Arizona Supreme Court’s ruling last month, which emphasized the state’s adherence to the 1864 law prohibiting most abortions except in cases necessary to save a pregnant woman’s life. This law also imposes a prison sentence on abortion providers.
Reproductive rights advocates, as well as some Republican candidates like former President Donald Trump, have expressed support for the repeal, distancing themselves from the court ruling. However, the measure has sparked controversy within the Arizona House, drawing criticism from several Republicans who strongly oppose abortion.
State Representative Matt Gress, one of the Republicans who voted in favor of the repeal, emphasized that the outdated ban no longer aligns with the values of most Arizona voters. He stated that repealing it should have been a straightforward decision.
Despite the progress made in the House, the fate of abortion laws in Arizona remains uncertain. If the repeal fails in the state Senate, the 1864 law could be enforced as early as June 8, making Arizona one of the many states with strict abortion bans in place. On the other hand, if the repeal succeeds, the 15-week restriction on abortions will continue to be enforced in the state.
Democrats are gearing up to prioritize abortion policy in the upcoming general election, emphasizing the need to elect legislators who will protect reproductive freedoms. Advocates are also working on a constitutional amendment proposal that would safeguard abortion access up to fetal viability, gathering support to secure a spot on the November ballot.