In a landmark decision, the Arizona Supreme Court has upheld a historic law dating back to 1864, effectively banning abortions in nearly all circumstances within the state. The ruling, which came on Tuesday, has sent shockwaves through Arizona’s political landscape and reignited the debate over reproductive rights.

The law, enacted before Arizona achieved statehood, imposes strict penalties, including two to five years in prison, for anyone aiding in an abortion procedure, with exceptions only in cases where the mother’s life is at risk. This decision could potentially bring an end to legal abortions in Arizona, raising concerns among reproductive rights activists about the health and well-being of women in the state.

While some providers have vowed to continue offering abortions, citing existing court rulings, Democratic leaders, including Governor Katie Hobbs and Attorney General Kris Mayes, have pledged not to prosecute any abortion cases. However, the legal battle is far from over, with the possibility of challenges from county attorneys and ongoing efforts to protect abortion access.

The ruling, which passed with a 4-2 majority among justices appointed by Republican governors, has sparked calls for action, including a proposed ballot measure to enshrine abortion rights in the Arizona Constitution. With over 500,000 signatures already collected, advocates see the upcoming November election as a crucial opportunity to safeguard reproductive freedoms.

As Arizona grapples with one of the most restrictive abortion bans in the country, the Supreme Court’s decision has laid bare the stark choice facing voters: uphold the status quo or risk regressing to outdated policies from the 19th century. The outcome of this pivotal moment could also influence upcoming legislative and electoral battles in the state.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding enforcement timelines, the court’s ruling underscores the urgent need for continued advocacy and mobilization to protect reproductive rights in Arizona.