In a notable turn of events, three Republican lawmakers in the Arizona House crossed party lines to join Democrats in voting to repeal the state’s highly contentious 1864 abortion ban, which resurfaced due to a recent court ruling.

The ban, which only allowed exceptions to save the life of the pregnant woman, faced a final vote of 32-28, ultimately passing.

Democratic Representative Stephanie Stahl Hamilton, the bill’s sponsor, expressed satisfaction with the outcome, citing discussions with Republicans prior to the vote.

The bill now progresses to the state Senate for further consideration.

Representative Matt Gress, one of the three Republicans who supported the repeal, emphasized the importance of respecting and protecting women while defending new life.

However, backlash from anti-abortion groups against these Republicans who voted for repeal is already evident, ABC News reported.

Meanwhile, the Senate conducted a preliminary review of its own repeal bill, anticipating a parallel vote, although the passage of the House bill renders this action potentially redundant.

With support from key Republican senators, the House bill is expected to pass the Senate and ultimately be signed into law by Governor Katie Hobbs, with the repeal taking effect within 90 days of the legislative session’s conclusion.

Written by B.C. Begley