ACLU, Planned Parenthood Challenge Arizona Abortion Law

A coalition of reproductive rights advocates, including Planned Parenthood and the American Civil Liberties Union, has filed a lawsuit challenging Arizona's 15-week abortion ban, citing a recent constitutional amendment that protects abortion rights until fetal viability, generally around 23 to 24 weeks. Arizona's Democratic Attorney General, Kris Mayes, has agreed not to enforce the 15-week ban while the lawsuit proceeds, acknowledging it violates the new amendment. The lawsuit seeks to ensure that provisions of the 15-week ban, which could result in criminal charges against providers, are not enforced. This legal action reflects broader efforts to align Arizona's abortion laws with the constitutional amendment passed by voters in November 2024. The amendment was part of a wave of similar measures approved in several states, responding to the Supreme Court's 2022 decision overturning Roe v. Wade. While the attorney general supports the lawsuit, other groups may oppose it, potentially prolonging legal proceedings.