Arizona’s House of Representatives took a significant step on Thursday by voting to repeal an archaic abortion ban dating back to 1864, which could potentially be enforced next month.
In a narrow vote of 32-28, legislators opted to strike down the outdated abortion prohibition. The bill now awaits approval from the Arizona state Senate before the 160-year-old ban can be officially abolished.
Democratic Representative Oscar De Los Santos emphasized the importance of empowering individuals, their families, and healthcare providers to make decisions regarding reproductive healthcare, stressing that such choices should not be dictated by politicians.
The battle over Arizona’s Civil War-era abortion ban underscores the ongoing debate surrounding women’s reproductive rights in the United States, particularly since the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2022 decision, which devolved the authority to regulate abortion to individual states. In response, conservative-led states swiftly enacted stringent abortion restrictions.
The resurgence of the old abortion law stemmed from an April 9 ruling by the state Supreme Court. Unless the legislature intervenes, the ban could become enforceable within 60 days of the ruling.
Even if Democrats successfully repeal the 1864 abortion ban, other restrictions on the procedure would persist. In 2022, Arizona Republicans enacted a law prohibiting abortion after 15 weeks of pregnancy.
With Democrats nationwide confident in public support for abortion rights, they have been keen to elevate the issue, particularly ahead of the November presidential election. Arizona, known for its deep political divide between Democrats and Republicans, holds crucial significance as a battleground state in the presidential race.
Despite facing procedural obstacles, Arizona Democrats have persistently attempted to repeal the 1864 abortion ban in recent weeks. Additionally, they are striving to present a ballot measure to voters in November aimed at restoring abortion rights.
Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs has denounced Republicans upholding the antiquated abortion ban as “extremists” and has vowed to sign a repeal of the ban if it successfully clears both the House and the Senate.
