A 160-year-old ban on abortion could soon be reinstated in the US state of Arizona. Accordingly, abortions are prohibited even after rape or incest. There are only exceptions if the life of the woman involved is in danger.
The Arizona Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that the 1864 law could be reinstated. To clarify any remaining constitutional questions, the judges set a two-week deadline. The law will not yet come into effect during this phase. Because a lawsuit is also underway, this period could be extended again. Activists warn that the insecurity alone could severely limit access to abortion in Arizona.
This is more likely to affect helpers than pregnant women
Currently, abortions in Arizona are banned after 15 weeks unless the mother’s life is in danger. The 19th century ban does not directly criminalize unwanted pregnant women, but rather people who help them have an abortion. A doctor can be sentenced to up to five years in prison.
It is still unclear to what extent the law is actually enforced. Neither US President Joe Biden nor his rival Donald Trump are in favor of it. The ruling was “the result of the extreme agenda of Republican officials committed to depriving women of their freedom,” the White House said in a statement. According to Trump, the court’s decision “goes too far.” The governor of Arizona, a Democrat, “and everyone else will come back to their senses.”
Banned in 16 US states
In June 2022, the Supreme Court overturned the historic ruling on national abortion rights (from 1973). Abortions are now virtually banned in sixteen US states, while others still have fairly liberal laws.
According to polls, a majority of people in the United States support limited abortion rights. The issue also plays a role in the presidential election campaign. Unlike Biden, Trump is not in favor of it, but has not yet explicitly spoken out in favor of a national ban.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
