Arizona is on the verge of repealing a long-standing Civil War-era ban on nearly all abortions as a repeal bill awaits the signature of Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs. The repeal, set to be signed on Thursday, marks the beginning of a battle to safeguard reproductive healthcare in the state. However, the repeal may not take effect until 90 days after the legislative session concludes, potentially in June or July. Abortion rights advocates are hopeful that a court intervention will prevent any delays.
The repeal effort secured final legislative approval in a 16-14 Senate vote, with two GOP lawmakers crossing party lines to join Democrats. The emotional and intense debate in the Senate included vivid descriptions of abortion procedures, audio recordings of fetal heartbeats, and warnings against legislating based on religious beliefs.
The near-total ban, dating back to before Arizona's statehood, only allows abortions to save the patient's life and does not include exceptions for cases of rape or incest. A recent ruling by the Arizona Supreme Court suggested that doctors could face prosecution under the 1864 law, carrying a prison sentence of two to five years for assisting in an abortion.
Physician Ronald Yunis, a Phoenix-based obstetrician gynecologist, hailed the repeal as a positive step for women's healthcare in Arizona. He emphasized that the change would prevent women from having to seek medical care in other states. The repeal would replace a 2022 statute banning abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy as Arizona's prevailing abortion law.
Arizona's political landscape, as a battleground state, has been influenced by the abortion debate. Former President Donald Trump has expressed concerns about potential Republican losses over the issue, while President Joe Biden's campaign sees it as a political advantage in key states like Arizona.
Planned Parenthood Arizona has filed a motion urging the state Supreme Court to maintain abortion services until the legislative repeal takes effect. Meanwhile, advocates are gathering signatures for a ballot measure that would allow abortions up to around 24 weeks, with exceptions for the parent's life or health.
Republican lawmakers are also contemplating introducing competing abortion proposals on the November ballot, reflecting the ongoing division on this contentious issue.
