Arizona governor signs order to centralize abortion prosecutions.

Arizona Governor Takes Action to Protect Reproductive Rights

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs (D-AZ) made a bold move on Friday by signing an executive order that centralizes control of abortion-related prosecutions in the state’s Attorney General Office. This decision effectively takes away authority previously held by the state’s 15 county attorneys.

Hobbs strategically announced this executive order on the one-year anniversary of the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision. This landmark ruling removed federal constitutional protections for abortion, putting the controversial issue in the hands of state legislation.

“I will not allow extreme and out of touch politicians to get in the way of the fundamental rights of Arizonans,” Hobbs passionately tweeted.

The executive order also instructs Arizona law enforcement agencies not to utilize state resources in investigations involving abortion-seekers coming from states where the procedure is illegal. Furthermore, the governor’s office will refuse to assist in extraditions for abortion-related offenses if the procedure is performed legally in Arizona.

It’s important to note that current law in Arizona permits abortions up to 15 weeks gestation, and physicians cannot be prosecuted for performing the procedure.

Planned Parenthood Advocates of Arizona expressed their support for the measure and commended Hobbs for her commitment to championing reproductive freedom. However, they expressed disappointment in the 15-week ban, considering it too restrictive.

“[A]nti-abortion extremists continue to threaten our fundamental right to bodily autonomy — but today sets us on a promising and welcome path,” emphasized PPAA’s President and CEO Brittany Fonteno.

In addition to the executive order, Hobbs has established the Governor’s Advisory Council on Protecting Reproductive Freedom. This council will be responsible for making recommendations that expand access to reproductive healthcare in Arizona.

Interestingly, this executive order coincides with President Joe Biden’s own executive order on the same day. Biden’s order demands that the Department of Health and Human Services, along with several other federal departments and agencies, develop guidance to expand access to contraceptives through insurance mandates. The goal is to lower out-of-pocket costs for consumers.

With these significant actions, Arizona is taking a stand to protect reproductive rights and ensure that individuals have access to the healthcare they need.

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