The US state of Arizona is close to joining Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas in imposing a strict abortion ban. 

Arizona's conservative Supreme Court has decided an abortion law —first introduced 160 years ago— is now enforceable.

US correspondent Mitch McCann told Mike Hosking that abortions are currently legal until 15 weeks of pregnancy. 

But he says this 1864 law —created before Arizona was even a proper state— would make abortions illegal except if the mother's life is in danger.

McCann says it could be enforceable within two months, with Joe Biden calling the law cruel and extreme.

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The US state of Arizona is close to joining Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas in imposing a strict abortion ban.  
Arizona's conservative Supreme Court has decided an abortion law —first introduced 160 years ago— is now enforceable. 
US correspondent Mitch McCann told Mike Hosking that abortions are currently legal until 15 weeks of pregnancy.  
But he says this 1864 law —created before Arizona was even a proper state— would make abortions illegal except if the mother's life is in danger. 
McCann says it could be enforceable within two months, with Joe Biden calling the law cruel and extreme. 
LISTEN ABOVE

A fresh and intelligent start to your day - catch the very latest international and domestic news developments, sport, entertainment and business on Early Edition with Ryan Bridge, on Newstalk ZB.

A fresh and intelligent start to your day - catch the very latest international and domestic news developments, sport, entertainment and business on Early Edition with Ryan Bridge, on Newstalk ZB.