PHOENIX, AZ – Arizona’s long-standing Civil War-era abortion ban will officially be repealed on Saturday, marking a pivotal moment in the state’s political and legal history. The law, first enacted in 1864, criminalized nearly all abortions except when a woman’s life was at risk. After months of political debate and legal uncertainty, Governor Katie Hobbs signed the bill repealing the ban in May, ensuring that the outdated law will no longer be enforced.
Governor Hobbs emphasized the importance of safeguarding reproductive rights in Arizona, stating, “I will continue doing everything in my power to protect reproductive freedoms because I trust women to make the decisions that are best for them. Politicians do not belong in the doctor’s office.”
The repeal follows a ruling by the Arizona Supreme Court that allowed the enforcement of the ban, leading to confusion and concern among healthcare providers and patients. Democratic lawmakers, backed by bipartisan support, were able to pass the repeal in the state legislature despite Republican opposition.
The debate over abortion has become a defining issue in Arizona politics since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022. With the repeal of the 1864 law, Arizona now allows abortions up to 15 weeks, with exceptions only to save the life of the mother.
Arizona voters will have the final say on whether to enshrine the right to abortion in the state constitution in the upcoming general election. If passed, the measure would allow abortions until fetal viability, around 24 weeks, and after that in cases where the mother’s health is at risk.
The Arizona Secretary of State’s office has verified over 577,000 signatures in support of the ballot measure, well above the required threshold. This sets the stage for a crucial decision in November as Arizona’s voters determine the future of reproductive rights in the state.
