Arizona voters will have the opportunity to vote on the Arizona for Abortion Access Act, which will be known as Proposition 139 on the ballot in the upcoming election. This initiative, supported by a coalition of reproductive rights organizations, aims to establish a fundamental right to abortion care up until fetal viability, with exceptions for the health and well-being of the pregnant individual. Supporters believe the measure will restore and protect access to abortion care free from political interference.
Opponents of the proposition are concerned about the potentially broad application of the mental health exception, which they believe could lead to the termination of viable pregnancies. Currently, abortion is legal in Arizona up until the 15th week of pregnancy, with exceptions only to save the woman’s life.
The political debate around abortion access in Arizona intensified following the U.S. Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision, which overturned Roe v. Wade. In response, Arizona repealed a near-total ban on abortion dating back to 1864 and restored a law allowing abortion up until the 15th week of pregnancy. Proposition 139, if approved, would overturn the 15-week ban.
The secretary of state’s office in Arizona has verified the record number of signatures gathered by the Arizona for Abortion Access coalition to place the measure on the ballot. While supporters celebrate this achievement, they are also prepared for legal challenges that may arise. Ultimately, Arizona voters will have a direct say in the future of reproductive rights in the state through this ballot initiative.
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