The Arizona Legislature faced intense backlash from both Republicans and Democrats after a proposed repeal of the state’s 1864 law criminalizing abortion throughout pregnancy was shut down by GOP leaders. The law, which has no exceptions for rape or incest, was recently upheld by the state Supreme Court, allowing for its enforcement. Abortion providers in the state have vowed to continue services until they are forced to stop, which could happen within weeks. Pressure mounted on legislators from both parties, as well as former President Donald Trump, to intervene in the situation.
Democrats and at least one Republican in the state House attempted to open discussions on repealing the 1864 abortion ban, but GOP leaders quickly shut down the debate and adjourned for the week. This led to outrage among Democrats, who chanted “Shame! Shame!” at the Republicans. Republican Rep. Teresa Martinez accused Democrats of extremist behavior and defended the importance of protecting life. Democratic legislators emphasized the national interest in Arizona’s abortion ban, pointing out the potentially deadly consequences of the law remaining in place.
Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs condemned the inaction on the proposed repeal, calling it unconscionable and dangerous for women in the state. The fight over abortion rights in Arizona has drawn attention from both supporters and opponents of legal abortion. Anti-abortion groups such as SBA Pro-Life America have urged residents to oppose a proposed ballot initiative that would enshrine abortion rights in the state constitution. However, Hobbs believes public outrage will drive voters to protect abortion rights directly through state law.
Abortion rights advocates have collected over 500,000 signatures in support of a ballot question seeking to approve a constitutional amendment protecting the right to abortion until viability. Former President Trump expressed dissatisfaction with the Arizona court decision upholding the abortion ban, calling on state lawmakers to change it. The ruling allows for doctors to be prosecuted for performing abortions, with a potential prison sentence of two to five years. Concerns have arisen over how enforcement of the law may impact miscarriage cases and access to reproductive healthcare.
Planned Parenthood, a plaintiff in the case, plans to continue offering abortion services up to 15 weeks of pregnancy for at least two more months, in line with an agreement reached in a related case. The ongoing battle over abortion in Arizona reflects the broader national debate surrounding reproductive rights and the impact of recent Supreme Court decisions. With enforcement of the 1864 law looming, both supporters and opponents of legal abortion are mobilizing to protect their interests in the state. The outcome of this fight will have far-reaching consequences for women’s health and autonomy in Arizona and beyond.
