Arizona Republicans blocked attempts on Wednesday to advance a bill aimed at repealing the state’s long-standing abortion ban, which dates back to 1864 and was recently deemed enforceable by the Arizona Supreme Court.
Despite the calls from many members within their own party to put an end to the law, GOP leaders in the Legislature, who are in control of conservatives, have stated that they will closely review the court’s ruling and listen to their constituents in order to determine the most appropriate course of action.
In a statement to ABC News, Senate President Warren Petersen and House Speaker Ben Toma emphasized that the decision made by the Supreme Court was solely based on the text of the law, and not a policy statement.
According to Petersen and Toma, the recent court ruling is not yet in effect and is expected to take several weeks to come into force.
The state Senate president and House speaker expressed their intention to carefully examine the court’s ruling, engage in discussions with their members, and actively listen to their constituents. This proactive approach will help them determine the most appropriate course of action for the legislature.
The court ruling announced on Tuesday received praise from those who oppose abortion and condemnation from advocates for reproductive rights. President Joe Biden expressed his disapproval, describing it as “cruel” and attributing it to the “extreme agenda of Republican elected officials who are determined to strip away women’s freedom.”
Marjorie Dannenfelser, the president of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America and a staunch opponent of abortion, hailed the court’s decision as a monumental triumph for unborn children and their mothers.
According to the spokesperson, reinstating Arizona’s pro-life law will have a significant impact by protecting over 11,000 babies every year. She expressed her belief that this legal victory is a testament to the compassion and dedication of the pro-life movement.
Notable Arizona Republicans, such as Senate candidate Kari Lake and former Gov. Doug Ducey, have chosen to distance themselves from the court’s decision, despite their previous support for less strict abortion bans.
Both Democrats and Republicans in the Legislature have been advocating for the repeal of the ban, which has been in place since before Arizona became a state. The ban only includes an exception to protect the life of the pregnant woman.
In the midst of the bipartisan outcry, the Arizona House witnessed a stir of drama on Wednesday when Democrats attempted to introduce a bill aimed at repealing the law.
Republicans took the lead, spearheaded by Rep. Matt Gress, who made a move to bring the legislation to the floor. However, he promptly joined his fellow Republicans in temporarily adjourning for recess before the vote could take place.
Members in the room heard Arizona Democrats chanting “shame, shame, shame” in response to the situation.
The state House narrowly voted, 30-29, to adjourn for the next week.
During the voting on the second motion to adjourn, Democratic Rep. Stephanie Stahl Hamilton delivered a passionate speech to her colleagues as she introduced the proposal to repeal the ban in the House.
“We are currently experiencing a significant moment. The state of Arizona has captured the attention of the global community, and this is not an exaggeration,” she emphasized.
“This legislative session presents us with a crucial decision that holds significant weight. In light of the high stakes involved, we must avoid any unnecessary delays. Hence, it is imperative that we remain in this chamber today,” she emphasized.
Republican Representative Teresa Martinez subsequently addressed the floor, urging the body to adjourn in order to avoid hastily addressing this crucial matter.
She expressed her disapproval of her Democratic colleagues’ actions earlier in the day, when they chanted “shame” at Republicans on the floor.
“I’m shocked by the complete lack of manners and immaturity,” she exclaimed.
The battle is not yet finished.