Arizona passes Proposition 139 with huge mandate, so what happens next?

Phoenix, Arizona: Proposition 139, one of the most debated measures in Arizona's recent election, has passed with over 62% of voter support.

The proposal amends Arizona's state constitution to permit abortions up to approximately 23 or 24 weeks of pregnancy, expanding the previous legal window from the former 15-week limit. Additionally, Prop 139 includes provisions to safeguard the life, physical, or mental health of the pregnant individual, and it ensures that those assisting with an abortion procedure cannot face legal penalties.

Supporters of Proposition 139 celebrated as the results came in, viewing the outcome as the culmination of a challenging two-year campaign. Chris Love, Senior Advisor to Planned Parenthood Advocates of Arizona, one of the key advocates for the measure, told 12 News: "This is a mandate. Arizonans are sending a clear message: we want the right to access abortion. Anyone thinking about restricting this right should reconsider."

The 'It Goes Too Far' campaign, a group firmly opposed to Proposition 139, released a lengthy statement condemning the measure's passage. They argued that the vote was swayed by misinformation and claimed it poses risks to the state’s values.

“Today begins a dangerous era for girls and women,” the statement read. “This vote aligns Arizona with California’s abortion laws, which we believe are extreme and unrestricted. This outcome wasn't due to Arizona's views, but rather to a campaign that relied on fear and omitted crucial details.”

"A historic win is an understatement," Victoria Lopez, Director of Program and Strategy at the ACLU of Arizona, told 12 News. "So many eyes across the country were watching Arizona and the outcome of 139 and we're supporting it."

"What comes next is we're waiting for election results to be certified and then there will be a proclamation by the Governor because we're dealing with a constitutional amendment to the Arizona State Constitution."

It's believed Governor Katie Hobbs will sign Proposition 139 at the end of the month.