Arizona Republicans on Wednesday blocked efforts to move forward on a bill to repeal a near-total abortion ban in the state that dates to 1864
Arizona Republicans on Wednesday blocked efforts to move forward on a bill to repeal a near-total abortion ban in the state that dates to 1864, which the Arizona Supreme Court ruled this week is enforceable.
Despite many members in their own party calling for an end to the law, GOP leaders in the Legislature, which is controlled by conservatives, said they will be « closely reviewing » the court’s ruling and listening to constituents to determine the best course of action.
« The Supreme Court has made its decision, and it was one based solely on the text of the law – it was not a policy statement, » Senate President Warren Petersen and House Speaker Ben Toma said in a statement to ABC News.
Petersen and Toma noted that the court’s ruling this week has not yet taken effect and is expected to not kick in for several weeks, at least.
« During this time, we will be closely reviewing the court’s ruling, talking to our members, and listening to our constituents to determine the best course of action for the legislature, » the state Senate president and House speaker said.
The court ruling on Tuesday drew support from abortion opponents and denunciation from advocates for reproductive rights, including President Joe Biden, who labeled it “cruel » and blamed it on the « result of the extreme agenda of Republican elected officials who are committed to ripping away women’s freedom.
