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'Attack on our freedom': Gov. Hobbs wants to repeal Arizona laws that require detailed reports on abortion

Governor might have to go to court to overturn statutes.

PHOENIX — In the wake of Arizona voters' overwhelming approval of a constitutional right to abortion, Democratic Gov.  Katie Hobbs wants to repeal state laws requiring an annual report packed with detailed information on every abortion performed in the state.

"This report is an attack on our freedom, is unacceptable, and must be brought to an end," Hobbs said in a prepared statement released Wednesday.

"The government has no place in surveilling Arizonans' medical decision-making or tracking their health history." 

Hobbs' statement was timed to the latest report, for 2023, released Wednesday. 

The 38-page document includes 20 statistical tables that track demographic information, methods used, complications and other statutorily required information. Individual patients aren't identified.

A Hobbs spokeswoman said the governor's office was reviewing a comprehensive repeal bill in the new legislative session that starts in January.

Passage by the Republican-controlled Legislature is unlikely. 

The governor or abortion rights advocates could also pursue a repeal through the courts. 

Voters' approval of the Arizona Abortion Access Act in November could result in attempts to repeal the six dozen anti-abortion laws on Arizona's books.

Ealier this month, the ACLU filed suit to repeal a 15-week abortion ban that conflicts with the constitutional amendment enshrining the right to abortion. 

RELATED: Lawsuit seeks to undo 15-week abortion ban that conflicts with expanded access in Arizona

RELATED: Governor Hobbs fired the judge reviewing the state's execution process. Criminal justice groups say more transparency is needed.

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