Arizona Coalition Celebrates Record Number of Signatures for Abortion Rights Ballot Initiative
Arizona voters will have the opportunity to decide on adding the right to an abortion to the state constitution this November. The Arizona secretary of state's office has confirmed the validation of 577,971 signatures for the ballot measure, surpassing the required number set by the coalition supporting the initiative.
The coalition, Arizona for Abortion Access, expressed excitement over the milestone, calling it the most signatures ever validated for a citizens' initiative in the state's history. Campaign manager Cheryl Bruce emphasized the importance of restoring and protecting the right to access abortion care without political interference.
With abortion rights becoming a focal point for Democrats following the 2022 overturn of Roe v. Wade by the U.S. Supreme Court, the issue is gaining momentum in various states. Arizona joins Colorado, Florida, Maryland, Nevada, New York, and South Dakota in presenting the question to voters this year.
The proposed amendment aims to permit abortions until a fetus reaches viability, typically around 24 weeks, with exceptions for cases where the mother's life is at risk or to safeguard her physical health. Arizona's current law prohibits abortions beyond 15 weeks and includes provisions for medical emergencies, non-surgical abortion restrictions, ultrasounds, and parental consent for minors.
)