Phoenix, Arizona – Lawmakers in the Arizona state House made a significant move on Wednesday by passing a bill to repeal a near-total ban on abortion originally dating back to 1864. This repeal comes after the state’s Supreme Court recently upheld the ban, making abortion a felony with strict penalties. The vote saw three state House Republicans crossing party lines and joining Democrats in approving the repeal of this 160-year-old law.

Following the state House’s action, the state Senate is expected to vote on the repeal next week. With Republicans also holding a narrow majority in the Senate, the outcome remains uncertain. However, sources familiar with the situation have indicated that the Senate is likely to pass the repeal, which will then need the signature of Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs to become law.

The repeal of the ban has received praise and support from abortion rights advocates, Democrats, and even the White House, as it marks a progressive step forward in reproductive rights legislation. The move to repeal the ban came after mounting pressure, with Republicans in the state House finally relenting and allowing the bill to advance after several failed attempts.

Despite opposition from some Republican lawmakers, who argued against rushing the decision, the state House proceeded with the vote and successfully passed the repeal. Now, the focus shifts to the state Senate, where the fate of the repeal hangs in the balance.

If the repeal is successful, it will pave the way for a return to a 15-week ban on abortions in Arizona, with certain exceptions. However, beyond the legislative battle, voters may soon have the opportunity to weigh in on the future of abortion rights in the state through a proposed constitutional amendment that could undo the 1864 ban.

This ongoing debate highlights the contentious nature of abortion rights in Arizona and the broader political landscape surrounding reproductive rights. As the state navigates these complex issues, the outcome of the repeal and potential ballot measures could have far-reaching implications for the future of abortion access in the state.