Abortion Added to Arizona Ballot, Will Be Voted on in November

Arizona’s newly qualified abortion rights initiative puts the power of reproductive health decisions directly in the hands of voters.

At a Glance

Arizona’s ballot will include the Arizona for Abortion Access Act, also known as Proposition 139.
Organizers collected 577,971 valid signatures, far surpassing the required 383,923.
The measure proposes a “fundamental right” to receive abortion care up until fetal viability.
Current Arizona law permits abortion up to the 15th week of pregnancy, with certain exceptions.

Arizona for Abortion Access Act

Arizona will vote on the Arizona for Abortion Access Act, known as Proposition 139, this fall. A significant number of valid signatures—577,971—secured its spot on the ballot. According to state requirements, only 383,923 signatures were necessary. The measure aims to establish a “fundamental right” to abortion care up until the 24th week of pregnancy or fetal viability.

“Arizona’s ballot will include a major reproductive rights measure this fall alongside the presidential, Senate and other battleground races, putting a key issue directly before voters in the swing state.” – Alex Tabet and Adam Edelman

The initiative outlines that exceptions after 24 weeks would be applicable only when the life or physical/mental health of the individual is at stake. Arizona’s current law allows abortion up to the 15th week of pregnancy, with exceptions primarily focused on saving the woman’s life. Proposition 139, if approved, will supersede the existing 15-week restriction.

Arizona certifies abortion-rights initiative for the November ballot https://t.co/EPmqiU4K49

— MSNBC (@MSNBC) August 13, 2024

Historical and Political Context

The political debate on abortion in Arizona has heated up post the 2022 Dobbs decision by the U.S. Supreme Court, which affected nationwide abortion rights. The state Supreme Court declared Arizona’s near-total ban on abortion from 1864 still active until a recent legislative initiative reversed this antiquated law.

Gov. Katie Hobbs signed a bill overturning the 1864 abortion ban in May, restoring a 2022 law permitting abortions up to the 15th week. If passed, Proposition 139 would replace the 15-week law with broader abortion rights.

Arizona abortion rights measure will be on November ballot | Click on the image to read the full story https://t.co/qepjySIwbs

— koconews (@koconews) August 13, 2024

Potential Implications and Challenges

Secretary of State Adrian Fontes acknowledged that the ballot proposal might face legal challenges. Constitutional amendments related to abortion rights are not just a topic in Arizona; Missouri, too, has certified a petition for a similar initiative. Both states, if these measures pass, will enshrine abortion rights in their state constitutions.

Chris Love from Arizona for Abortion Access emphasized substantial support from diverse organizations and individuals, signaling a historical moment for the state. Cheryl Bruce, campaign manager for the initiative, called the validation of signatures a major victory for Arizona voters.

“‘This is a huge win for Arizona voters who will now get to vote YES on restoring and protecting the right to access abortion care, free from political interference, once and for all.’” – Cheryl Bruce, campaign manager