Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has pledged to do everything in her power to mitigate the impacts of the Civil War-era abortion ban that Arizona’s Supreme Court ruled was enforceable this week. She is working to support abortion providers and patients, possibly by helping license Arizona doctors in other states. The 1864 Arizona law outlawed abortion from the moment of conception, with exceptions only to save the woman’s life. The state Supreme Court’s decision on the ban will be put on hold for 14 days for additional challenges to be considered.
Mayes has promised that as long as she is Attorney General, no woman or doctor will be prosecuted under the 1864 law. She believes that this moment is about freedom and the ability to control one’s own body, and is committed to fighting so the ban is never implemented. She plans to work with Arizona providers to get them licensed to provide care in California temporarily until a ballot measure is voted on in the fall to enshrine abortion rights in the state’s constitution. California Governor Gavin Newsom has said that his state is ready to help Arizonans access reproductive health care.
Reproductive rights advocates have expressed concerns about the implications of the Supreme Court’s decision for abortion providers like Dr. Ronald Yunis of Acacia’s Women Center in Phoenix. While Mayes has made promises to prevent prosecution under the ban, the legality of providing abortions under the 1864 law still remains an issue. Yunis points out that if it is illegal, he cannot perform abortions. Mayes recognizes these concerns and pledges to fight for the rights of doctors and ensure they can continue to provide care without fear of arrest.
Mayes stated in an in-person interview that she is working with other states to find avenues for Arizona doctors, nurses, and abortion providers to practice medicine outside of Arizona temporarily. She expressed understanding for doctors who feel unable to provide care under the ban due to fear of prosecution. Mayes is committed to fighting the ban and ensuring that women have access to reproductive health care in Arizona. She has reemphasized her dedication to defending the rights of women and ensuring their ability to control their own bodies.
The state Supreme Court’s decision has sparked controversy and raised concerns about the future of reproductive rights in Arizona. Mayes has vowed to use the 45-day period to fight the ban and prevent its implementation. She is working towards a solution that would allow Arizona providers to continue providing care in California, offering a temporary safe haven until the issue is resolved. Governor Newsom of California has pledged support for Arizonans seeking reproductive health care, investing funds to ensure that California can act as a sanctuary state for abortions. The situation continues to evolve as stakeholders work towards a resolution.
