Legislative Alert | April 12, 2024

Arizona - it's a dry crazy

As we're sure you're well aware, the Arizona Supreme Court ruled this week that the 1864 territorial era abortion ban can be upheld in our state. The ban has no exceptions, except to save the life of the mother. While anti-abortion advocates may find that language sufficient, the reality is that it vastly underestimates the dangers and complexities for a pregnant body as well as the societal and medical reasons that someone might need this essential care at any point during their pregnancy.

Affirm CEO, Bré Thomas, issued the following statement:

"We are heartbroken to learn that the Arizona Supreme Court has decided to declare the 1864 near total abortion ban as enforceable. This dangerous law predates Arizona statehood and the right of women to vote. It also could not be more out-of-touch with Arizona voters. Deciding whether to continue a pregnancy is a deeply personal decision that is made for a variety of reasons. Arizonans deserve the freedom to make that choice, not politicians. Affirm Sexual and Reproductive Health and other Title X sexual and reproductive healthcare services and resources, including contraception, remain accessible to everyone at more than 50 health centers across Arizona. We will continue coordinating sexual and reproductive health services, connecting clients to caring providers, offering inclusive health education, and advocating for evidence-based health policy at every level of government, especially for legislation that guarantees everyone full reproductive freedom.”

HERE'S WHAT YOU CAN DO:

Learn More

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert Arizona Turns The Clock Back To 1864

The headline of this alert is a quote from this recap by Colbert that had us laughing and crying

The View Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs Calls State's 1864 Abortion Ban 'Absolutely Outrageous'

When will men be forced to take a bus to another state to get their essential healthcare?

KJZZ These Arizona GOP lawmakers voted to support 1864 law. Now, they want to repeal it

Take Action with the Arizona for Abortion Access Act

While there is an obvious delay in this act taking effect (it will be voted on in November), it is our best shot to guarantee reproductive freedoms in AZ in a way that cannot be undone easily as legislature and court rulings can be. Affirm contributed to bringing the language of the initiative forward with partner agencies and we fully support it.

Sign the petition today

Volunteer to gather signatures

Last, but certainly not least, support Affirm. We have the knowhow and connections to work on these issues, but we cannot achieve reproductive freedoms for all without donor support. If you're against the 1864 ban, you're with Affirm. Click below to donate.

NO MORE 1864

Thank you for helping us create a future where everyone has the trust, support, and information they need to choose what's best for them.

Sincerely,

Bré Thomas

CEO

AFFIRM | www.affirmaz.org

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