Arizona Supreme Court Rules on Fetal Terminology for November Ballot

GG News Bureau
Arizona, 16th August. In a pivotal decision, Arizona’s Supreme Court has ruled that a fetus can be referred to as an “unborn human being” on November’s ballot when voters decide whether to enshrine abortion rights in the state constitution.

The proposed initiative seeks to extend abortion access up to 24 weeks post-conception, up from the current 15-week limit, and includes exceptions to protect the life or health of the pregnant individual. Critics worry these exceptions could create legal loopholes for post-viability abortions.

The court’s decision on Wednesday affirmed that the term “unborn human beings,” as drafted by a Republican-majority legislative council, meets impartiality requirements. The initiative has garnered 577,971 valid signatures, surpassing the required 383,923.

Abortion has become a central issue in the U.S. presidential election, with states like Arizona—where President Biden narrowly won in 2020—becoming key battlegrounds. Following the U.S. Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade in June 2022, many states, including Arizona, have enacted stricter abortion laws.

Earlier this year, the Arizona Supreme Court upheld a 1864 abortion ban but reversed its stance after legislative intervention. Arizona’s current 15-week ban does not allow exceptions for rape or incest.

Several other states will also vote on abortion measures this November, highlighting the ongoing national debate on reproductive rights.