Arizona officials are facing a significant challenge following the revival of a near-total abortion ban by the state's Supreme Court. The ruling mandates adherence to a law dating back to the Civil War era, which prohibits all abortions except those deemed necessary to save a pregnant person's life. This law, broader than the state's 2022 ban on abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy, carries a prison sentence of two to five years for abortion providers.
Vice President Kamala Harris is scheduled to visit Arizona amidst mounting political pressure, with abortion emerging as a key issue in the upcoming elections. The state Supreme Court has granted a 14-day delay in enforcing the law, allowing plaintiffs to pursue challenges in lower courts regarding its constitutionality.
While legal experts suggest that enforcement of the law may be delayed due to ongoing legal challenges, there are concerns about a potential chilling effect on abortion services statewide. Despite assurances from Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes and several county attorneys that they will not prosecute under the new ban, providers may be hesitant to perform illegal medical services.
Abortion rights advocates are urging Arizona residents to seek services while they are still available and to participate in the upcoming November elections, where a ballot measure could restore abortion access up to approximately 24 weeks into pregnancy.
Amidst the uncertainty, Governor Katie Hobbs has vowed to fight for reproductive freedom in Arizona. The state's legal landscape remains complex, with various county attorneys expressing differing approaches to potential prosecutions under the ban.
As the situation unfolds, concerns have been raised about the impact on marginalized groups and the potential increase in unsafe abortions. The looming uncertainty has prompted calls for voters to have a say in the matter, with a ballot measure planned for November 2024 to enshrine abortion rights in the state's constitution.
While the legal battles continue, the fate of abortion access in Arizona hangs in the balance, with residents awaiting a resolution at the ballot box.
