Arizona's landscape of reproductive rights has undergone a significant transformation, culminating in the repeal of the state's archaic 1864 abortion ban. Governor Katie Hobbs signed the repeal into effect back in May, putting an end to a months-long period of confusion and controversy. "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, and know politicians do not belong in the doctor’s office," Hobbs said in a statement obtained by AZPM.

The upheaval in Arizona's political arena escalated following the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade last year. In a tight legislative struggle, House Democrats, supported by three cross-aisle Republicans, managed to advance the bill to repeal the Civil War-era ban. It later passed the state Senate with additional bipartisanship support, overcoming earlier obstacles that elicited vocal protests on the House floor. As the pivotal general election looms, abortion rights have crystallized as a central issue in Democratic campaigns, and ultimately, Arizona voters will decide whether to cement these rights into the state constitution.

The current legal parameters in Arizona permit abortions up until the 15-week mark, with a mandatory 24-hour pre-procedure ultrasound. Exceptions are sparse beyond this gestational limit, save for those necessary to protect the life of the mother. Minors seeking an abortion must navigate the additional hurdles of parental consent or judicial authorization. With the outdated territorial ban now retired, this modern framework stands as the guiding set of regulations for healthcare providers, who must adhere strictly to reporting requirements laid down by the Department of Health Services.

However, the power to shape the future of abortion rights lies with the electorate, come November. A citizen-led initiative spearheaded by Arizona for Abortion Access has successfully placed a measure on the ballot, after securing over half a million signatures, well above the needed threshold. Should voters endorse the measure, it would allow abortions up until the point of fetal viability, typically assessed at around 24 weeks, and beyond that in cases where the mother's health is at risk. Arizona for Abortion Access told AZPM about the impactful potential of this ballot measure for reproductive healthcare in the state.