Democratic lawmakers in Arizona are gearing up for a third attempt to repeal an 1864 law that outlaws abortion, setting the stage for a heated battle in the Republican-controlled State Legislature.
Previous efforts to overturn the Civil War-era ban have ended in chaos, with Republican leaders successfully blocking the repeal measures put forth by Democrats and a few members of their own party. However, Democrats are determined to push forward this time, seeking new support and exploring different tactics to bring their repeal measure to a vote.
Representative Stephanie Stahl Hamilton, a Democrat leading the charge, expressed frustration at the slow progress of her one-sentence repeal bill, which has yet to receive a vote. The reluctance of the Legislature to undo the law, which many view as outdated and extreme, has created a rift within the Republican Party.
While prominent Republicans, including former President Donald J. Trump, have called for the repeal of the law to shift focus to other political issues, staunch anti-abortion advocates in Arizona have urged lawmakers to maintain the ban, citing it as a protective measure for women and babies.
Despite the pushback, some lawmakers are determined to move forward with the repeal efforts. The State Senate is expected to take a procedural step in support of a similar repeal measure on Wednesday, with lawmakers reaching out to potential supporters and allies to garner more votes.
The fight over the 1864 ban has intensified since the State Supreme Court ruled in favor of its enforcement, sparking concerns among abortion providers who could face legal consequences under the law. Attorney General Kris Mayes, a Democrat, has vowed not to enforce the ban and is exploring legal challenges to delay its implementation.
As tensions rise and the window for legislative action narrows, the battle over abortion rights in Arizona continues to escalate, leaving many pregnant individuals and healthcare providers in a state of uncertainty and fear. With the fate of the 1864 law hanging in the balance, the outcome of Wednesday’s repeal efforts remains uncertain.
