Arizona Republicans block quick push to repeal near-total abortion ban, which hasn’t taken effect yet

In a surprising turn of events, Arizona Republicans have blocked a quick push to repeal a near-total abortion ban that hasn’t even taken effect yet. The controversial law, which was signed by Governor Doug Ducey earlier this year, would ban abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy with no exceptions for rape or incest.

The bill, known as SB 1457, was set to take effect on September 29th, but a group of Republican lawmakers have decided to put the brakes on the repeal efforts. This move has sparked outrage among pro-choice advocates and Democrats, who argue that the law is unconstitutional and infringes on a woman’s right to choose.

Despite the backlash, Republican lawmakers have stood firm in their decision to block the repeal, citing their belief in the sanctity of life and the importance of protecting the unborn. They argue that the law is necessary to prevent late-term abortions and protect the rights of the unborn child.

Opponents of the law, however, argue that it is an extreme and draconian measure that would force women to carry pregnancies to term even in cases of rape or incest. They also argue that the law is in direct violation of Roe v. Wade, the landmark Supreme Court decision that protects a woman’s right to choose.

The decision to block the repeal has also raised concerns about the future of reproductive rights in Arizona, as well as the broader implications for abortion access across the country. With the conservative majority on the Supreme Court and ongoing efforts to overturn Roe v. Wade, many fear that laws like SB 1457 could become the norm in states across the country.

For now, the fate of the near-total abortion ban in Arizona remains uncertain. While pro-choice advocates continue to push for its repeal, Republican lawmakers are standing firm in their support of the law. The coming months will likely see heated debates and legal challenges as both sides fight to protect their respective positions on this contentious issue.