Arizona Senate Passes Repeal of 1864 Near-Total Abortion Ban
The Arizona Senate has passed a repeal of the state’s 1864 near-total abortion ban. This comes after the law was reinstated by the state’s Supreme Court three weeks ago, sparking a renewed focus on abortion rights in the battleground state. Democrats were able to secure the support of two Republicans in the Senate, and the repeal is expected to be ratified by Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs. The law, which dates back to before Arizona’s statehood, bans nearly all abortions, including those sought by survivors of rape or incest. It also imposes prison terms for doctors and others who aid in abortions.
Repeal Efforts and the Impact on Abortion Access
The repeal of the 1864 ban is seen as a significant step towards protecting abortion rights in Arizona. Abortion rights advocates have long argued that such bans cause harm to those in need of abortions and their providers. The repeal, however, is not the end of the fight for abortion rights in the state. Democrats are pushing for a ballot measure in November that would enshrine the right to abortions in the state’s constitution. They emphasize that repealing the ban is just one step towards achieving comprehensive reproductive healthcare access.
The Political Landscape and Future Challenges
The issue of abortion has placed considerable pressure on the Arizona GOP, as they face opposition from both conservatives who support the ban and swing voters who oppose it. The repeal of the 1864 ban could potentially mobilize more voters in the upcoming elections, as the issue has proven to be a significant factor in voter decision-making. Republican lawmakers are considering introducing competing abortion proposals on the November ballot, including a 14-week ban and a “heartbeat protection act” that would make abortion illegal after six weeks. However, no such measures have been introduced at this time. Overall, the repeal of the 1864 near-total abortion ban in Arizona marks a significant victory for abortion rights advocates. However, the fight for comprehensive reproductive healthcare access and the protection of abortion rights is far from over.
