Global

Controversy Erupts as Arizona Supreme Court Revives Abortion Ban

The Arizona Supreme Court has on Tuesday, revived a ban on nearly all abortions under a law dating back to 1864, a move that has ignited a fierce debate over reproductive rights in the state. 

The ruling, which was passed with a 4-2 majority, comes as a significant blow to abortion rights advocates, further restricting access to abortion in a state already known for its stringent abortion laws.

The court’s decision stemmed from a case brought forward by an anti-abortion obstetrician and a county prosecutor, who pushed for the implementation of the Civil War-era statute. 

Despite objections from the Democratic attorney general, the court ruled in favor of enforcing the historic law, which prohibits abortions except in cases to save the woman’s life, with penalties of up to five years in prison for violators.

Justice John Lopez, writing for the majority, emphasized that the state legislature had never explicitly authorized elective abortion, highlighting the court’s duty to defer to legislative judgment. 

The ruling allows for the prospective enforcement of the 19th-century law, with a temporary stay of implementation to address any remaining legal issues.

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes condemned the decision as “unconscionable,” pledging not to prosecute any individuals under the “draconian law.” 

However, local prosecutors retain the authority to enforce it, raising concerns among abortion rights activists about potential repercussions for healthcare providers and women seeking abortion services.

The ruling comes in the wake of the conservative-leaning U.S. Supreme Court’s overturning of the landmark Roe v. Wade decision in 2022, granting states greater autonomy to enact restrictive abortion laws. 

President Joe Biden condemned the Arizona ruling as a reflection of the “extreme agenda” of Republican officials, warning of its detrimental impact on women’s freedom and healthcare access.

In response to the court’s decision, Planned Parenthood Arizona affirmed its commitment to providing abortion services, citing a state court order barring immediate enforcement of the 1864 law. 

However, the organization faces uncertainty as legal challenges persist, potentially jeopardizing access to reproductive healthcare for women across the state.

The ruling has reignited calls for action, with abortion rights advocates pushing for a ballot measure to enshrine the right to abortion in the state constitution. 

Chioma Kalu

Follow us on:

AriseNews

Recent Posts

114 #EndBadGovernance Protesters Released, Received At Abujas State House

All 114 detained #EndBadGovernance protesters were released by court order and have been received at…

8 mins ago

Novak Djokovic Withdraws From ATP Finals Due To ‘Ongoing Injury’

Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from ATP Finals due to an “ongoing injury,” shifting his focus…

31 mins ago

Zimbabwe Bans Police Officers From Using Phones On Duty

Zimbabwe has banned police officers from using mobile phones on duty, in a bid to…

34 mins ago

Victor Okhai: Trump’s Presidency Could Be a Game-Changer, Cause Nigeria To Look Inward And Break Free From Foreign Aid Dependency

Victor Okhai has argued that Trump’s presidency could encourage Nigeria to reduce foreign aid reliance…

1 hour ago

Equatorial Guinea Suspends Officials Involved In Sexual Misconduct In Government Offices

Equatorial Guinea's VP has announced the suspension of officials involved in sexual misconduct within government…

2 hours ago

IGP Egbetokun Orders Investigation Into Treatment Of Minors In Police Detention

Following outrage over the arraignment of minors, IGP Egbetokun has directed a probe into minors’…

2 hours ago